Oswald Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Patterson Dam Mayfield Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Oswald Dam, located in Medora, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by NRCS and completed in 2004.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans a length of 310 feet, with a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. The primary purposes of Oswald Dam are fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management, making it an important resource for the local community.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Oswald Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. With a drainage area of 0.12 square miles and a spillway type of uncontrolled, Oswald Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, particularly for the protection of surrounding properties and wildlife habitats.
Water and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Oswald Dam not only for its functional purposes but also for its contribution to water management and conservation efforts. Situated on the TR- Squaw Creek, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for maintaining water levels and promoting ecological balance in the region. As an earth dam with soil foundation, Oswald Dam stands as a testament to sustainable resource management and the importance of responsible stewardship of our natural environment.
Year Completed |
2004 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SQUAW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Oswald Dam