Godfrey Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Godfrey Dam, located in Marshall County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) with a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, or serving as a small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1992, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 565 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 161 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
The dam, situated on TR-Snipe Creek, has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Despite its low hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam is currently unrated. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, and there is no information available regarding the last inspection date or inspection frequency. Considering the critical role of water resources in the face of climate change, the maintenance and management of Godfrey Dam will be crucial to ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding area.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Godfrey Dam cannot be understated. With its key role in fire protection and water storage, the dam serves as a vital resource for the community of Kellogg, Iowa. It is imperative that regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness measures are implemented to mitigate any potential threats and ensure the long-term resilience of Godfrey Dam in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
565 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SNIPE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.71 |
Nid Storage |
161 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Timber Creek Near Marshalltown
|
37cfs |
Iowa River At Marshalltown
|
1040cfs |
Indian Creek Near Mingo
|
79cfs |
South Skunk River At Colfax
|
211cfs |
South Fork Iowa River Ne Of New Providence
|
79cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Timmons Grove County Park
|
||
Riverview Park - Marshalltown
|
||
Mariposa Co Park
|
Godfrey Dam