Adamson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Adamson Dam, located in Decatur County, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam that serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1993 by the USDA NRCS, this dam has a height of 23 feet and a length of 425 feet, with a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR- Weldon River and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Adamson Dam is a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the area. The dam's primary purpose is to provide essential water resources for firefighting activities, livestock, and recreational activities such as fishing. Although the dam is currently not rated for its condition assessment, it is regularly inspected by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite its low hazard potential, Adamson Dam plays a significant role in the local community by providing water resources for various purposes. As a key piece of infrastructure in the region, the dam contributes to the overall water management efforts and enhances the resilience of the area against water-related challenges such as droughts and floods. With its strategic location and multiple functions, Adamson Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR- WELDON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.8

Drainage Area

0.48

Nid Storage

121

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.
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