David Downey Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
David Downey Dam, located in Union County, Iowa, is a private dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2013 for grade stabilization purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and stretches 409 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including grade stabilization, recreation, and water supply for the surrounding area.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge of 30 cubic feet per second. The dam's location on TR-Indian Creek in the Twelvemile Creek area makes it a crucial part of the local water resource infrastructure, supporting a drainage area of 0.3 square miles and providing important flood control measures for the region.
With its strategic design and construction, David Downey Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in Union County, Iowa. The dam's presence not only ensures grade stabilization and water supply but also contributes to recreational activities in the area. As a privately owned structure, the dam is subject to state regulations and inspections, highlighting its importance in maintaining water quality and safety for the community.
Year Completed |
2013 |
Dam Length |
409 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
TR-Indian Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
106 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Thompson River At Davis City
|
22cfs |
East Fork 102 River At Bedford
|
1cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Nodaway River At Clarinda
|
47cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
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.
David Downey Dam