Vowell Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cramer Dam Schreurs Dam
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Vowell Dam, located in Madison County, Iowa, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1981.
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Summary
The dam, primarily used for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond, stands at a height of 25 feet with a length of 500 feet. It has a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.5 acres, serving the purpose of managing water resources in the area.
The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score, Vowell Dam poses minimal risk to the surrounding community. Despite not having a current condition rating, the dam continues to serve its intended purposes effectively while also contributing to the local ecosystem by providing a habitat for small fish and wildlife.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Vowell Dam to be a fascinating example of sustainable water management practices in action. Its construction and operation demonstrate the importance of maintaining and regulating water infrastructure to meet various needs, from fire protection to ecological conservation. As a key feature in the landscape of East Peru, this earth dam serves as a valuable resource for the local community while also highlighting the interconnectedness of water resources, environmental stewardship, and public safety.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR- N. CLANTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.21 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Middle River Near Indianola
|
48cfs |
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
South River Near Ackworth
|
18cfs |
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.
Vowell Dam