Bower Off-Road Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Bower Off-Road Dam, located in Westerville, Iowa, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1990 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans a length of 206 feet. With a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet and a surface area of 0.8 acres, the dam serves its purpose while also being regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Situated on TR-Four Mile Creek in Union County, Iowa, the Bower Off-Road Dam is considered to have a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being currently rated for its condition, the dam is inspected, permitted, and regulated by the state, ensuring its safety and functionality. With its uncontrolled spillway type and earth foundation, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region, providing valuable benefits to the community and ecosystem.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bower Off-Road Dam presents an intriguing case study of a locally managed structure contributing to fire protection and ecological support. Its location, design, and purpose reflect the intersection of human infrastructure with natural water systems, highlighting the importance of sustainable dam management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. With ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight, the dam continues to serve its intended functions while also posing opportunities for further research and engagement in water resource management strategies.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

206

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR-FOUR MILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.8

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.