Joshua Rardin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Newton Dam Clyde Frizell
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Joshua Rardin Dam, located in Grand River, Iowa, is a privately owned dam primarily designed for grade stabilization purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 2017 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 462 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 27 acre-feet, serving the local community by stabilizing grade and providing recreational opportunities.
With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Joshua Rardin Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures. The dam, situated on a tributary to Thompson River, has a spillway width of 12 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 96 cubic feet per second. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
As a key infrastructure for water supply and recreational activities, Joshua Rardin Dam contributes to the overall water management strategy in Adair County, Iowa. With its strategic location and design elements, this dam serves as a vital asset for both environmental conservation and community development, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
2017 |
Dam Length |
462 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Thompson River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.39 |
Nid Storage |
117 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Middle Raccoon River Near Bayard
|
121cfs |
East Nishnabotna River Near Atlantic
|
143cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
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.
Joshua Rardin Dam