Thomas Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lundell Dam Doherty Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Cherokee, Iowa, the Thomas Dam is a privately owned structure designed by the NRCS for fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 2000, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 199 feet, providing a storage capacity of 17 acre-feet. Situated on the TR- Little Sioux River, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the Thomas Dam serves as a vital resource for water management in the region. Its primary purpose highlights the essential role it plays in protecting against fires and providing water for livestock. The dam's location and design make it a key component in the overall water resource infrastructure of Cherokee, Iowa, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding community.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the Thomas Dam for its impact on the local ecosystem and its role in maintaining water levels for agricultural and environmental purposes. As a state-regulated structure with a focus on fire protection and stock pond management, the dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. The Thomas Dam stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners, state agencies, and designers in safeguarding water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
199 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR- LITTLE SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.11 |
Nid Storage |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Thomas Dam