Phillips Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Phillips Dam, located in Eldon, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.


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Summary

Completed in 1999, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 330 feet, providing essential fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.2 acres, Phillips Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Situated on TR-SNADY CREEK in Wapello County, Phillips Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, it continues to operate efficiently in providing water storage for its designated purposes. With its uncontrolled spillway, the dam ensures the safety and stability of the surrounding area while contributing to the overall water management efforts in the region.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Phillips Dam to be a fascinating piece of infrastructure, showcasing how private ownership can contribute to effective water management. Its construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the regulatory oversight by the Iowa DNR highlight the collaborative efforts in ensuring the safety and functionality of such vital structures in the state.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR- SNADY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.2

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.