Ball Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Grimm Dam Iowa Noname74
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Ball Dam, located in Louisa, Iowa, along the TR-Iowa River, was completed in 1985 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.
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Summary
This private dam, with a height of 29 feet and a length of 200 feet, has a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres. While the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential, it is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance.
The dam's design, primarily consisting of earth materials and a soil foundation, contributes to its structural integrity. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam's spillway type and width are designed to manage any excess water flow effectively. Although the dam's risk assessment is moderate, it has not been rated for its condition assessment. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are currently not documented for Ball Dam, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and assessment to mitigate any potential risks or hazards associated with the structure.
Ball Dam's location in Wapello, Iowa, under the ownership of a private entity, underscores the importance of collaboration between state and federal agencies for effective regulation and enforcement. With its role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the local community while also posing challenges that require ongoing attention and maintenance to ensure its long-term functionality and safety.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR- IOWA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Iowa River At Wapello
|
2490cfs |
Cedar River Near Conesville
|
1180cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
Iowa River Near Lone Tree
|
1970cfs |
Edwards River Near New Boston
|
48cfs |
Pope Creek Near Keithsburg
|
32cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Virginia Grove Rec Area
|
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Louisa County Fairgrounds
|
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Wapello Fairgrounds Park
|
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Snively Access
|
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Flaming Prairie Park
|
Ball Dam