Mc Clure Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chickering Dam R&J Investment Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Mc Clure Dam, located in Davis County, Iowa, was completed in 1997 by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
This privately-owned earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and spans 326 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 32 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Soap Creek in the DES MOINES RIVER watershed, the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Mc Clure Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety for downstream communities. While the dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has not been rated for its condition assessment, it continues to provide valuable water storage and management capabilities for agricultural and environmental purposes in the region. With a surface area of 2.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.04 square miles, the dam plays a key role in water conservation efforts along the TR-Soap Creek.
Despite its low hazard potential, Mc Clure Dam remains a vital infrastructure for fire protection, stock watering, and aquatic habitat support in the area. As part of the Rock Island District, the dam contributes to the overall water resource management strategy for the region, with a focus on sustainable utilization and risk mitigation. With ongoing state oversight and regular inspections, Mc Clure Dam stands as a testament to responsible water stewardship and climate resilience in Iowa's rural landscape.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
326 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SOAP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.04 |
Nid Storage |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
15cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
McGowen Rec Area
|
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Drakesville City Park
|
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Lake Fisher
|
Mc Clure Dam