Hart Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Hart Dam, located in Villisca, Iowa, along the West Nodaway River, was completed in 2001 with the primary purpose of grade stabilization.


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Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans a length of 410 feet, with a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet. The dam serves to protect the surrounding area from erosion and flooding, contributing to the overall water resource management in Montgomery County.

Managed by the NRCS, Hart Dam is classified as low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment. While not currently rated for condition assessment, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the West Nodaway River. Despite not being regulated by the state or subject to regular inspections, the dam's construction and design by the NRCS ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in managing water flow and sedimentation in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hart Dam represents a significant infrastructure asset in Iowa's water management system. With a focus on grade stabilization and a low hazard potential, the dam serves as a key component in mitigating erosion and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The collaboration between private ownership, the NRCS, and other stakeholders highlights the importance of proactive measures in addressing water resource challenges in the region.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR- WEST NODAWAY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.