Lundell Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Doherty Dam Thomas Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lundell Dam, located in Cherokee, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the NRCS and completed in 1999.
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Summary
The dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection and creating a small fish pond for stock. With a height of 34 feet and a length of 352 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 48 acre-feet. It is situated on the TR-Little Sioux River and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Lundell Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a condition assessment that is currently not rated. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 2 feet. The dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have outlet gates or associated structures. While the dam is inspected, permitted, and regulated by state authorities, there is no information available on the frequency of inspections or the emergency action plan preparedness.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Lundell Dam will find it to be a unique structure that plays a crucial role in fire protection and aquatic habitat creation in the region. The dam's location on the Little Sioux River and its modest storage capacity make it an important asset for the local community. However, further information on its condition assessment, risk management measures, and emergency preparedness could provide a more comprehensive understanding of its overall impact and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
352 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Sioux River At Linn Grove
|
257cfs |
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
Floyd River At Alton
|
36cfs |
Ocheyedan River Near Spencer
|
59cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Floyd River At James
|
187cfs |
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.
Lundell Dam