Chelar Roadgrade Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Chelar Roadgrade Dam, located in Monroe County, Iowa, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS with state regulation and enforcement overseen by the Iowa DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at 28 feet high and spans 525 feet with a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Chelar Roadgrade Dam is considered to be in good condition and has not been rated for its current status. The dam sits on TR-Cedar Creek and has a normal storage capacity of 10 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for water management in the area. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it has not been modified since its completion.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the ecological importance of Chelar Roadgrade Dam in maintaining water levels and providing a habitat for local wildlife. The dam's strategic location and design contribute to its functionality in managing water flow and supporting the surrounding ecosystem. As a privately-owned structure with state oversight, this dam plays a critical role in water conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
525 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.18 |
Nid Storage |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
English Creek Near Knoxville
|
2cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
15cfs |
Des Moines River Near Pella
|
2080cfs |
Chariton River Near Chariton
|
2cfs |
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.
Chelar Roadgrade Dam