Mc Glaughlin Wetland Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mc Glaughlin Wetland Dam, located in Dows, Iowa, serves as a vital fish and wildlife pond within the area.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 2002, is primarily owned and regulated by the local government, with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. With a height of 9 feet and a length of 1120 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 589 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 96 acres.

Constructed with an earth foundation, the Mc Glaughlin Wetland Dam poses a low hazard potential and is currently assessed as being in good condition. The spillway, designed as uncontrolled, has a width of 23 feet and is able to manage any excess water flow effectively. The dam's purpose of providing habitat for fish and wildlife in the area is supported by its location along the TR- Drainage Ditch #90, ensuring a steady supply of water for the wetland ecosystem.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the strategic design and purpose of the Mc Glaughlin Wetland Dam, which not only supports local wildlife but also contributes to the overall ecological balance of the region. With its moderate risk assessment and state-regulated status, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in Iowa. Its presence underscores the importance of sustainable infrastructure for preserving natural habitats and enhancing environmental resilience in the face of climate change.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

1120

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TR- DRAINAGE DITCH #90

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

96

Drainage Area

5.2

Nid Storage

589

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
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.