Lucas County Roadgrade Dam (L-1) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Located in Lucas County, Iowa, the Lucas County Roadgrade Dam (L-1) is a privately owned structure designed by the Lucas County Engineer.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 49 feet and spanning a length of 1240 feet, was completed in 1989 and serves a primary purpose other than flood control or water supply. With a storage capacity of 860 acre-feet and a surface area of 16 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the TR-Chariton River in the region.

Regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Lucas County Roadgrade Dam (L-1) is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Although currently not equipped with an emergency action plan or inundation maps, the dam's risk management measures are in place to address potential threats and emergencies effectively.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the strategic location and purpose of the Lucas County Roadgrade Dam (L-1) in Lucas County, Iowa. With its role in managing the flow of the TR-Chariton River and its moderate risk assessment, this privately owned earth dam stands as a vital infrastructure supporting the surrounding community and ecosystem. As efforts continue to regulate, inspect, and enforce safety measures for the dam, its role in water resource management and climate resilience remains crucial for sustainable development in the region.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

1240

Dam Height

49

River Or Stream

TR- CHARITON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Drainage Area

1.11

Nid Storage

860

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

49
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.