Slaughter Flood Control Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Slaughter Flood Control Dam, located in McGregor, Iowa, is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along the TR-Mississippi River.


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Summary

Completed in 1938, this earth dam stands at 41 feet tall and spans 257 feet, with a storage capacity of 26 acre-feet. Managed by the local government and regulated by the Iowa DNR, the dam plays a key role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in June 2019. Recognized as a vital component in flood risk reduction efforts, Slaughter Flood Control Dam serves as a critical line of defense for the residents of Clayton County, Iowa. With its uncontrolled spillway and rock-soil foundation, the dam continues to be monitored and maintained to ensure its effectiveness in safeguarding the community from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Slaughter Flood Control Dam to be a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity and strategic infrastructure planning. As part of the St. Paul District's portfolio, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance the needs of flood control with environmental conservation in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam represents a beacon of hope for communities facing the unpredictable challenges of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

257

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

TR-MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

26

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

41
       
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.