Kellin Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Kellin Dam, located in Decatur, Iowa, serves as a vital resource for fire protection and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1989 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and stretches 425 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 5.2 acres and drains an area of 0.21 square miles.
Managed by a private owner, Kellin Dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its current condition. While the dam does not have a controlled spillway, it has a capacity to handle maximum discharge in case of emergencies. With its strategic location on TR- ELK CREEK and under the jurisdiction of the Rock Island District, Kellin Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Kellin Dam to be a fascinating example of sustainable infrastructure development. As a key component for fire protection and stock management, the dam not only serves practical purposes but also contributes to the ecological diversity of the area. With its long-standing history and ongoing regulatory oversight, Kellin Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in maintaining a balanced and resilient environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR- ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.21 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
Kellin Dam