Kiowa Marsh Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Kiowa Marsh Dam, located in Lake View, Iowa, is a state-owned structure that serves various purposes such as recreation and water management for Indian Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1992, stands at 11 feet high and stretches 503 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 323 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," indicating its multi-functional role within the region. Despite a low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been formally assessed, presenting a moderate risk level.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Kiowa Marsh Dam is regulated and inspected by state authorities to ensure its integrity and safety. With a surface area of 45 acres and a drainage area of 1.93 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flooding risks and providing recreational opportunities for the local community. Although the spillway type is listed as "Uncontrolled," the overall risk management measures for the dam are not specified, warranting further investigation into its emergency action plan and risk assessment protocols.

In the context of climate change and water resource management, Kiowa Marsh Dam's role in maintaining water levels and supporting local ecosystems becomes increasingly vital. With its strategic location and design features, this dam stands as a valuable asset in the region's water infrastructure, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

503

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Drainage Area

1.93

Nid Storage

323

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.