Morse Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 7, 2026
Morse Lake is a state-regulated water resource located in Rowan, Wright County, Iowa.
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Summary
Managed by Iowa DNR and designed by Ducks Unlimited, this fish and wildlife pond serves as a recreational area spanning 103 surface acres with a drainage area of 0.5 square miles. With a primary purpose of enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, Morse Lake offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature.
Constructed as an earth dam with a height of 10 feet, Morse Lake has a maximum storage capacity of 806 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 542 acre-feet. The low hazard potential of the dam coupled with a moderate risk assessment rating indicates a well-managed water resource. With uncontrolled spillway type and a spillway width of 2 feet, Morse Lake ensures proper water discharge during heavy rainfall events.
Although not currently rated for condition assessment, Morse Lake continues to provide a safe and sustainable environment for both aquatic life and recreational activities. With its picturesque location and ecological significance, Morse Lake stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the heart of Iowa.
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Morse Lake |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
103 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
806 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Iowa River Near Rowan
|
195cfs |
East Fork Des Moines River At Dakota City
|
255cfs |
Des Moines River At Humboldt
|
401cfs |
Boone River Near Webster City
|
232cfs |
Winnebago River At Mason City
|
166cfs |
Des Moines River At Fort Dodge
|
1320cfs |
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.
Morse Lake