Finch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Located in Marion, Iowa, Finch Dam is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1989, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 240 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Sugar Creek near Red Rock Reservoir, Finch Dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Finch Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Though its spillway is uncontrolled and it lacks certain features like outlet gates, the dam serves as a key asset for fire protection and water storage in the area. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, regular inspections and maintenance activities ensure its continued functionality and safety for both the environment and surrounding communities.

As a significant structure within the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Finch Dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region. With its strategic location and purpose, this earth dam not only provides essential water storage for fire protection and livestock but also supports the local ecosystem by creating a small fish pond. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and importance of dams like Finch Dam is essential for sustainable water management practices and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-SUGAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.2

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.