Woody Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Woody Dam, located in Jefferson County, Iowa, is a private earth dam completed in 2003 with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond.
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Summary
With a height of 27 feet and a length of 295 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 26 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres. Situated on a tributary to Rocky Branch, the dam plays a crucial role in grade stabilization and contributes to the overall ecological health of the area.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Woody Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by state regulatory agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and limited drainage area of 0.06 square miles, the dam remains a vital resource for water conservation and wildlife habitat preservation in the region.
With its strategic location and design by the NRCS, Woody Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. As a key component of the local ecosystem, the dam plays a significant role in enhancing biodiversity, maintaining water quality, and supporting the overall resilience of the surrounding environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Woody Dam serves as a prime example of how human-made structures can positively impact natural ecosystems and contribute to the conservation of our precious water resources.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
295 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Rocky Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
English River At Kalona
|
41cfs |
Iowa River Near Lone Tree
|
942cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Mac Coon Access
|
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Lake Darling State Park Campground
|
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Lake Darling State Park
|
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Brinton Timber
|
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Round Prairie Park
|
Woody Dam