Van Dalen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Possehl Dam Kaiser Dam
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Van Dalen Dam, located in Chillicothe, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1996, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 1 acre and has a drainage area of 0.1 square miles. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level.
The primary source agency for Van Dalen Dam is the state of Iowa, with the Rock Island District overseeing its management. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has not been modified since its completion. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted by the state to ensure its safety and integrity. Overall, Van Dalen Dam serves as a crucial water resource for the local community, providing essential fire protection and recreational opportunities while also contributing to the conservation efforts in the area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Van Dalen Dam to be an intriguing structure that showcases the collaboration between private ownership and government regulation in managing water resources. Its location along the TR- Middle Avery Creek in Monroe County, Iowa, adds to its significance in preserving the local ecosystem. With a focus on sustainability and risk management, the dam serves as a valuable asset in maintaining water quality and supporting the surrounding environment.
Year Completed |
1996 |
Dam Length |
258 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR- MIDDLE AVERY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
14cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
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.
Van Dalen Dam