Mc Clendon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Mc Clendon Dam, located in Pisgah, Iowa, is a privately owned structure managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 2000 by the NRCS, this earth dam stands at 31 feet high and spans 527 feet in length, with a primary purpose of providing fire protection and serving as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.6 acres, the dam also helps regulate the flow of Stowe Creek, a tributary in Harrison County.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Mc Clendon Dam is not currently rated for its condition. The dam has not been modified since its completion and does not feature an outlet gate or controlled spillway. While it meets state regulatory requirements and undergoes regular inspections, the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the dam remains unprepared. With the risk management measures and inundation maps yet to be established, there is a need for vigilant monitoring and proactive measures to ensure the safety and resilience of this vital water resource in the region.

Overall, Mc Clendon Dam plays a crucial role in providing essential services such as fire protection and stock pond management, while also contributing to the local ecosystem by regulating water flow and supporting aquatic life. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and advocate for the sustainable management of dams like Mc Clendon, it is imperative that stakeholders work together to address any potential risks and enhance the resilience of these structures in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

527

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR- STOWE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.6

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

66

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.