Miller Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Miller Dam, located in Dallas County, Iowa, was completed in 1992 and serves as a vital resource for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 425 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Raccoon River and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.
Despite its low hazard potential, Miller Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the surrounding area. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam has not been formally rated for its condition but is inspected, permitted, and regulated by state authorities. The dam's location in West Des Moines provides a valuable water source for both agricultural and recreational activities, highlighting its importance in sustaining local ecosystems and communities.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Miller Dam is a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and state agencies to protect and preserve water resources in Iowa. As a significant feature on the landscape, this dam not only provides essential services but also contributes to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Miller Dam stands as a symbol of the intersection between human intervention and natural processes in shaping our environment.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-RACCOON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.21 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Raccoon River At 63rd Street At Des Moines
|
587cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Walnut Creek At Des Moines
|
10cfs |
Raccoon River At Fleur Drive
|
1200cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
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.
Miller Dam
360th Street Dallas County