Carter Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Carter Dam is a privately owned structure located in West Burlington, Iowa, along the TR-Flint River.


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Summary

Completed in 1986, this earth dam stands at 31 feet high and has a length of 180 feet, serving primarily for fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 29 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.8 acres, Carter 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.

Despite its low hazard potential, Carter Dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam does not have an emergency action plan in place, and its condition assessment is currently not rated. While there are no associated structures or locks, Carter Dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is situated in a drainage area of 0.07 square miles. Its risk management measures and inundation maps have not been prepared, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

Located in Des Moines County, Carter Dam is a notable feature within the Kansas City District, overseen by the private owner and the Iowa DNR. As a vital resource for fire protection and recreational purposes, the dam's structural integrity and maintenance play a crucial role in safeguarding the local area against potential hazards and ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the 1980s, Carter Dam remains an essential component of the local landscape, highlighting the importance of responsible stewardship and proactive risk management in safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related challenges.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR- FLINT R.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.8

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

29

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.