Hill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Hill Dam, located in Bridgewater, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 2002 by NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and stretches 437 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa DNR, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Situated on the Tr- West Fork Middle Nodaway River, Hill Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being currently rated for condition assessment, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified. The dam's unique spillway type of "Uncontrolled" and its proximity to the Kansas City District add to its significance for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Overall, Hill Dam's presence in Adair County, Iowa, contributes to water resource management efforts in the area. With its various purposes and regulated status, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the community while also offering opportunities for research and conservation efforts related to water resources and climate resilience.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

437

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Tr- West Fork Middle Nodaway River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.3

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

71

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.