Betty Beaman Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dukes Dam Clyde Frizell
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Betty Beaman is a privately owned dam located in Adair, Iowa, along a tributary to Middle River.
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Summary
Constructed in 2014 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans a length of 498 feet, providing grade stabilization as its primary purpose. With a storage capacity of 136 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, Betty Beaman also serves recreational and water supply purposes in the region.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Betty Beaman is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment yet to be rated, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and can discharge a maximum of 78 cubic feet per second through its spillway. Despite its modest size, Betty Beaman plays a crucial role in flood control and water management within the area.
Located in a scenic landscape and under the representation of Congresswoman Cindy Axne, Betty Beaman contributes to the environmental and recreational well-being of the community. With its strategic placement and purposeful design, this dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners, government agencies, and environmental enthusiasts in preserving water resources and adapting to the challenges of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2014 |
Dam Length |
498 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Middle River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.46 |
Nid Storage |
136 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Betty Beaman