Wiley Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Wiley Dam, located in Warren County, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1964 with a primary purpose of fire protection and small fish pond.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, the dam stands at a height of 25 feet and stretches 415 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is state regulated and inspected regularly by the Iowa DNR to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure.

Situated in the vicinity of the Red Rock Reservoir on the TR- South River, Wiley Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a surface area of 3.5 acres and a drainage area of 0.21 square miles, the dam serves as a key element in maintaining water levels and providing essential services such as fire protection and stock watering. As part of the state's regulatory framework, the dam undergoes periodic inspections to uphold safety standards and mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

While Wiley Dam may not be the largest or most complex structure, its significance in supporting local water resources and climate resilience cannot be understated. With its design aimed at fulfilling multiple purposes, including fire protection and stock watering, the dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Wiley Dam play a vital role in safeguarding water resources for the future.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR- SOUTH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.5

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.