Heston Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Heston Dam, located in Appanoose, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1999, this dam stands at 26 feet high and stretches 300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. Situated on Tr- Shoal Creek in the State of Missouri, Heston Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Heston Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the surrounding area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation contribute to its effective water management capabilities, while its location within the Rock Island District enhances its overall impact on water conservation efforts. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, Heston Dam remains a key structure for maintaining water levels and supporting local ecosystems in the region.

As a significant water resource in the region, Heston Dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating climate change impacts. With its strategic design by the NRCS and ongoing regulatory oversight by the Iowa DNR, Heston Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for promoting water conservation, agricultural sustainability, and environmental resilience in the face of changing climate patterns. The dam's role in protecting against floods and providing essential water supplies highlights its critical contribution to the overall well-being of the local community and surrounding ecosystems.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Tr- Shoal Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.9

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.