Sandy Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Sandy Dam, located in Lucas, Iowa, along the DES MOINES RIVER and POSSUM HOLLOW, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Built in 1986 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this private earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and stretches 280 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. The dam, managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure safety and compliance with standards.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk rating, Sandy Dam has not been formally assessed for condition and emergency action preparedness. The dam does not have controlled spillways or outlet gates, highlighting potential areas for improvement in risk management and emergency response. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Sandy Dam an intriguing case study for its multiple functionalities and the need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure its long-term safety and effectiveness in water management.
This Iowa landmark, with its scenic location and historical significance, provides a valuable opportunity for research and analysis in water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, understanding the role of dams like Sandy Dam in mitigating risks and adapting to changing conditions is crucial for sustainable water resource management in the region. Engaging with stakeholders and policymakers to enhance the dam's safety measures and emergency response plans can help ensure the protection of surrounding communities and ecosystems in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
POSSUM HOLLOW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.36 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
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.
Sandy Dam
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