Reel Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Reel Dam, located in Van Buren County, Iowa, serves as a crucial water resource for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

Constructed in 2002 by the NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 336 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 4.1 acres and has a drainage area of 0.06 square miles.

Managed by a private owner, Reel Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam's hazard potential is low, and its condition is currently not rated. Despite the moderate risk assessment, the dam meets guidelines for emergency action preparedness and risk management measures.

Situated on the TR-FOX RIVER, Reel Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the area. Its presence not only supports fire protection and aquatic life but also contributes to the overall environmental health of the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Reel Dam serves as an intriguing case study of private dam ownership and state regulation in a rural Iowa setting.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

336

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR- FOX RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.1

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

52

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.