Mckean Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mckean Dam in Nodaway, Iowa is a private dam completed in 2013 by the USDA NRCS for grade stabilization purposes.
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Summary
Located on a tributary to Kemp Creek, this earth dam stands at 29 feet high and stretches 419 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. The dam also serves recreational and water supply purposes, covering a surface area of 2.5 acres and draining a 0.07 square mile watershed.
Despite its low hazard potential, Mckean Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. With no state regulation or inspection in place, the dam's maintenance and emergency preparedness measures remain unknown. However, the dam's strategic location in Adams County, Iowa, under the jurisdiction of the Kansas City District, signifies its importance in managing local water resources for both agricultural and recreational activities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mckean Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately-owned structure contributing to community development and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
2013 |
Dam Length |
419 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Kemp Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Mckean Dam