Smith (Steve) Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Koski Dam Gochenour Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Smith (Steve) Dam, located in Iowa's Harrison County near Missouri Valley, serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along a tributary to Willow Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 2011 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans 600 feet, with a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
In addition to flood risk reduction, Smith (Steve) Dam also serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife pond creation, grade stabilization, and recreational activities for the local community. With a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 0.37 square miles, the dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts while supporting the conservation of natural resources. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 20 feet, ensures proper water management during periods of high discharge.
Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its risk assessment is deemed moderate. The Iowa DNR oversees state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities related to Smith (Steve) Dam, ensuring compliance with safety standards and environmental guidelines. With its strategic location and multi-functional design, Smith (Steve) Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
2011 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Willow Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.37 |
Nid Storage |
103 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Soldier River At Pisgah
|
112cfs |
Little Sioux River Near Turin
|
1040cfs |
Boyer River At Logan
|
417cfs |
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.
Smith (Steve) Dam