Pierce Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Pierce Dam, located in Lucas, Iowa, was completed in 1998 and serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Managed by a private owner, the dam stands at a height of 31 feet with a length of 565 feet, creating a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet. The dam is primarily made of earth with a stone core and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Situated on the TR- South Otter Creek, Pierce Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state regulatory agency, demonstrating a commitment to safety and compliance. The dam's purpose, design, and location make it a valuable asset for water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region, providing essential services while minimizing risk to the surrounding community.

With its strategic location and functions, Pierce Dam plays a crucial role in the local water infrastructure, contributing to the overall resilience of the area. As a key component in the management of water resources and climate-related challenges, the dam exemplifies the importance of proactive planning and sustainable practices to ensure the safety and well-being of both the environment and the community it serves.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

565

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR- SOUTH OTTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.2

Drainage Area

0.53

Nid Storage

130

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.