Routh Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Siverly Dam Bentley Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Routh Dam, located in Maloy, Iowa, along Turkey Creek, was completed in 1994 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and stretches 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment of 3 out of 5, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Routh Dam is regulated and permitted by the state, with regular inspections conducted to enforce safety standards. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, indicating the need for careful monitoring of water levels during periods of heavy rainfall. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, ongoing risk management measures are essential to address any potential issues and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
With its central role in water resource management and conservation efforts in Ringgold County, Routh Dam represents a vital infrastructure for local fire protection and recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the maintenance and operation of dams like Routh Dam are crucial for ensuring sustainable water use and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR- TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
82 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Routh Dam