Sharp Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sharp Dam, located in Summit Lake, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 560 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-West Platte River, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Sharp Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Union County, Iowa. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam's condition is currently not rated, and there are no emergency action plans in place. However, the structure meets state guidelines and is regularly monitored for any potential risks or issues that may arise. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sharp Dam serves as a key feature in the local landscape, providing essential water storage and management capabilities for the surrounding area.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Sharp Dam