Cummins Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Victora Dam Frank Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in Mt.
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Summary
Etna, Iowa, the Cummins Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the USDA NRCS and the Iowa DNR in creating a sustainable water resource for fire protection, livestock, and small fish pond purposes. Completed in 1999, this earth dam spans 408 feet in length and reaches a height of 33 feet, providing a storage capacity of 37 acre-feet. Situated on the TR- Middle Nodaway River, this low hazard potential dam serves as a vital component in the local water management system.
The Cummins Dam's design features a spillway type of 'Uncontrolled', reflecting a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it undergoes regular state inspection, enforcement, and permitting protocols to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's location in a rural setting within Adair County, Iowa, highlights its importance in maintaining water resources for agriculture and environmental sustainability in the region. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Cummins Dam remains an essential asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.
Overall, Cummins Dam serves as a prime example of effective collaboration between private and state entities in managing water resources for multiple purposes. Its strategic location on the TR- Middle Nodaway River, combined with its structural design and storage capacity, underscores its importance in ensuring water security for the local community. As a key infrastructure for fire protection, livestock, and small fish pond needs, Cummins Dam stands as a reliable and sustainable solution for water management in Mt. Etna, Iowa, demonstrating the essential role of dams in supporting both human and environmental well-being.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
408 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR- MIDDLE NODAWAY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Cummins Dam