Bristow Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Trauger Dam Iowa Noname20
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Bristow Dam, located in Livermore, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1985 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 280 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-E. FK. DES MOINES R., this dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Bristow Dam remains a crucial asset for water resource management in the Humboldt County. The dam's location offers a strategic advantage for maintaining water supply, especially during dry periods, and supporting local agricultural activities. The Natural Resources Conservation Service continues to oversee the dam's operations and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Bristow Dam to be an intriguing case study in sustainable water management practices. With its multiple functions and modest size, this dam exemplifies the importance of properly maintaining and regulating water infrastructure to meet the diverse needs of the community while mitigating potential risks and ensuring long-term resilience in the face of climate variability.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-E. FK. DES MOINES R. |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
East Fork Des Moines River At Dakota City
|
255cfs |
Des Moines River At Humboldt
|
401cfs |
Des Moines River At Fort Dodge
|
1320cfs |
Iowa River Near Rowan
|
195cfs |
Boone River Near Webster City
|
232cfs |
Des Moines River Near Stratford
|
1720cfs |
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.
Bristow Dam