Kinser Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Kinser Dam, located in Montgomery County, Iowa, was completed in 1999 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 30 feet tall and stretches 538 feet in length, with a primary purpose of serving as a fire protection, stock, or small fish pond. Sitting on TR- Tarkio Creek, the dam has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7.9 acres.

Managed by a private owner, Kinser Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is considered to be in good condition and poses minimal threat to surrounding areas. While the dam does not have controlled spillways or outlet gates, it serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kinser Dam offers a fascinating study in dam construction and management. Its strategic location on Tarkio Creek, combined with its structural design and purpose, make it a key player in fire protection, livestock management, and ecological preservation in the region. As a low-hazard structure with a moderate risk assessment, Kinser Dam showcases the importance of responsible dam operation and maintenance in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

538

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR- TARKIO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.9

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.