Van Fossen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Halliday Dam Sump Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Van Fossen Dam, located in Braddyville, Iowa, serves as a crucial water resource for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans a length of 275 feet. With a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet, the dam contributes to the conservation and management of water resources in the region.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Van Fossen Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as not assessed for its condition. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is continuously monitored for any potential risks or issues that may arise.
As part of the Kansas City District, Van Fossen Dam plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the area. Its presence along the TR-Nodaway River not only provides essential water storage but also contributes to the overall ecological health of the region. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of this dam in sustaining the local ecosystem and supporting various water-related activities.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NODAWAY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Van Fossen Dam