Shaw Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sanders Dam Anderzhon Dam
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Shaw Dam, located in Riverton, Iowa, along the TR-East Nishnabotna River, is a privately owned structure designed by the NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 2003, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 560 feet, with a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet. With a surface area of 3.8 acres and a drainage area of 0.62 square miles, Shaw Dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Shaw Dam has not been conditionally assessed and lacks an emergency action plan. However, it meets state permitting and regulatory requirements, ensuring its structural integrity and safe operation. Its uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 2 feet, allows for controlled water release when needed. The dam serves as a vital resource for fire protection and livestock watering while providing habitat for small fish species, contributing to the overall ecosystem health of the area.
Shaw Dam, owned and operated by a private entity, plays a crucial role in water resource management in Fremont County, Iowa. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam serves multiple functions while maintaining a low risk profile. As a key component of the local watershed, Shaw Dam contributes to the overall resilience of the region's water supply and ecosystem. Climate enthusiasts and water resource managers alike can appreciate the importance of this structure in enhancing both environmental and community well-being in the area.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR- EAST NISHNABOTNA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.62 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
|
556cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
670cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
21400cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
East Nishnabotna River At Red Oak
|
267cfs |
Nodaway River At Clarinda
|
35cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Waubonsie State Park Campground
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Waubonsie State Park
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Pierce Creek Rec Area
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Shaw Dam