Meggison Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Adel Milldam Harkrader Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Meggison Dam is a privately owned structure located in Dallas, Iowa, along the TR-North Raccoon River.
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Summary
Built in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 280 feet in length, providing storage of 20 acre-feet and serving purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. Situated in the Rock Island District, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its integrity and safety.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Meggison Dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition, although it has not been formally rated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is designed to handle moderate discharges. While no emergency action plan (EAP) is currently in place, the structure meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped to manage potential risks associated with its operation. Despite its relatively small size, Meggison Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and environmental conservation efforts in the region, highlighting the importance of private ownership in maintaining critical infrastructure for sustainable development.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR- NORTH RACCOON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Grimes
|
183cfs |
Walnut Creek At Des Moines
|
10cfs |
Raccoon River At 63rd Street At Des Moines
|
587cfs |
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.
Meggison Dam