Harold Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: April 29, 2026

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Harold Dam, located in Montgomery County, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including grade stabilization, fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreation.


Summary

Built in 2005 by USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet with a length of 615 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 113 acre-feet. The dam is situated along a tributary to Walnut Creek, with a drainage area of 0.72 square miles and a surface area of 4 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential and not being rated for condition assessment, Harold Dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. It does not have outlet gates and its spillway width is 14 feet. The dam has no associated structures and is not under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The surrounding area offers a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices.

15-Day Long Term Forecast


Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

615

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Trib to Walnut Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.72

Nid Storage

113

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.
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