Mc Dowell Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Mc Dowell Dam, located in Eldon, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1999, the earth dam stands at 38 feet high and spans 303 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Chippwa Creek, the dam serves to regulate water flow and provide essential services to the surrounding area.
Managed by the Iowa DNR, Mc Dowell Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement by state authorities. Its location within Wapello County, in close proximity to the Rock Island District, underscores its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
With its primary purpose being fire protection and livestock support, Mc Dowell Dam plays a crucial role in enhancing water security and environmental sustainability in the area. As a key element in the local water infrastructure, the dam showcases the collaboration between private ownership and state regulatory agencies in ensuring the safety and efficiency of water resource management. Its strategic location on TR-Chippwa Creek highlights the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience, making it a focal point for enthusiasts in the field.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
303 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TR- CHIPPWA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.04 |
Nid Storage |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
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.
Mc Dowell Dam