Marsh Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hang Dam Mc Combs Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Marsh Dam, located in Taylor County, Iowa, along the TR- West Branch 102 River, is a private earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1990.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 30 feet and spanning 424 feet in length, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 3 acres and has a drainage area of 0.15 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Marsh Dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes state inspections and enforcement. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it meets state permitting requirements and has not been modified since its completion. The dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are not fully disclosed, indicating a need for further evaluation and preparedness in the event of an emergency.
Overall, Marsh Dam serves as a vital resource for the local community in Hopkins, MO, providing essential water storage for fire protection and livestock use. As a private earth dam with state regulation and oversight, it highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring water infrastructure to ensure safety and sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the unique design and purpose of Marsh Dam, as well as the ongoing efforts to assess and manage potential risks associated with its operation.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
424 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR- WEST BRANCH 102 RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.15 |
Nid Storage |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Marsh Dam