Stills Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Stills Dam, located in Indianola, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam that serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1995, this dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 560 feet, with a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. Situated on TR-WALNUT CREEK, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Stills Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it meets regulatory guidelines and has not had any emergency action plans prepared or revised. With its uncontrolled spillway type and soil foundation, Stills Dam provides essential water resource management for the surrounding area, while also contributing to the local ecosystem and wildlife habitats.

Overall, Stills Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in Warren County, Iowa, offering not only fire protection and agricultural benefits but also recreational opportunities for the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, dams like Stills Dam play a crucial role in adapting to changing conditions and ensuring the sustainable use of water for future generations. With its regulated operations and moderate risk level, Stills Dam stands as an important asset in the region's water resource and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR- WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.9

Drainage Area

0.24

Nid Storage

63

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.