Boy Scout Bay Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Boy Scout Bay Dam, located in Eldon, Iowa, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1993 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at 13 feet tall and stretching 690 feet in length, holds a maximum storage capacity of 173 acre-feet. It is situated along TR- LAKE WAPELLO and is managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Despite its low hazard potential, Boy Scout Bay Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the Iowa DNR. The surrounding area has a surface area of 11.1 acres with a drainage area of 1.18 square miles, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and water recreation.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the conservation and management of dams will find Boy Scout Bay Dam an intriguing case study. With its unique design and purpose, this earth dam serves both recreational and regulatory functions, underscoring the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR- LAKE WAPELLO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.1

Drainage Area

1.18

Nid Storage

173

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.