Sells Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Sells Dam, located in Cherokee, Iowa, is a private dam regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 2007 by the NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and spans 320 feet in length. With a primary purpose of fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond, Sells Dam has a storage capacity of 309 acre-feet and covers an area of 11.1 acres.
Situated on the TR- Little Sioux River, Sells Dam is designed with an uncontrolled spillway type and is classified as having a low hazard potential. Despite being in a moderate risk category, the dam is currently in good condition and has not undergone a formal assessment. With its location in a rural setting and the absence of associated structures, Sells Dam is an essential resource for water management in the region, ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding community.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Sells Dam in mitigating flood risks, providing water storage, and supporting local ecosystems is crucial. With its operational history and purposeful design, Sells Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human intervention and environmental stewardship in managing water resources in the state of Iowa.
Year Completed |
2007 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
TR- LITTLE SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11.1 |
Drainage Area |
1.33 |
Nid Storage |
309 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Sells Dam