Leland Shelton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Leland Shelton Dam, located in Chariton, Iowa, is a private-owned structure designed by the USDA - NRCS.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 2016, this earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of grade stabilization along the Chariton Creek. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 506 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet and a surface area of 7.5 acres, regulating a drainage area of 0.22 square miles.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet and outlet gates are also uncontrolled. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Leland Shelton Dam is moderate. The Iowa DNR regulates and inspects the dam, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan are crucial aspects for ensuring the safety of surrounding communities in case of a potential incident.

In conclusion, Leland Shelton Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating risks in the area. Its construction and design by the USDA - NRCS highlight the importance of collaboration between public and private entities in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, dams like Leland Shelton will be instrumental in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of a changing climate on water availability and quality.

Year Completed

2016

Dam Length

506

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Chariton Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.5

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

99

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.