Frank Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nodaway Lake Dam Iowa Noname65
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Frank Dam, located in Fontanelle, Iowa, is a privately-owned earth dam completed in 1989 for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at 31 feet tall and spans 265 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet. Situated on the TR- Middle Nodaway River, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Frank Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it has no outlet gates or associated structures. While the dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it is part of the Rock Island District. With its location in Adair County, Iowa, Frank Dam serves as a vital resource for water management and conservation in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Frank Dam to be an intriguing infrastructure that plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting various purposes in the area. As a privately-owned structure with state regulation and oversight, the dam represents a balance between human intervention and natural resource management. Its construction and design by SCS reflect the collaborative effort between private entities and government agencies to ensure the safety and efficiency of water resources in Iowa.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
265 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR- MIDDLE NODAWAY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
East Nishnabotna River Near Atlantic
|
143cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Middle Raccoon River Near Bayard
|
121cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
East Nishnabotna River At Red Oak
|
270cfs |
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.
Frank Dam