Ramsey Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Willow Lake Dam Iowa Noname70
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ramsey Dam, located in Harrison County, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam primarily designed for grade stabilization along TR- WILLOW CREEK.
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Summary
Constructed by the NRCS in 2000, the dam stands at a height of 43 feet and spans 550 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and low hazard potential, Ramsey Dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, indicating potential risks that warrant attention from water resource and climate enthusiasts.
The dam's purpose of grade stabilization aligns with its key feature of stone core construction on a soil foundation. With a normal storage capacity of 15 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.39 square miles, Ramsey Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region. While the dam has not been inspected or rated for condition assessment, its risk management measures and emergency action plans are areas of interest for those monitoring water resource infrastructure.
Given the dam's location within the Rock Island District and its association with the USACE, stakeholders may find opportunities for collaboration in enhancing the safety and efficiency of Ramsey Dam. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the risk profile and management strategies of dams like Ramsey becomes increasingly important for ensuring the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
TR- WILLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.39 |
Nid Storage |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Soldier River At Pisgah
|
112cfs |
Boyer River At Logan
|
417cfs |
Little Sioux River Near Turin
|
1040cfs |
Monona-Harrison Ditch Near Turin
|
158cfs |
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
Missouri River At Decatur
|
15500cfs |
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.
Ramsey Dam