Swigart Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Swigart Dam, located in Ringgold County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 440 feet. With a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet, the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, particularly for fire protection and livestock needs.
Despite its low hazard potential, Swigart Dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam's moderate risk assessment rating indicates a need for ongoing risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, it remains a key asset for water management in the region, providing essential water storage and conservation benefits for the local community.
Although Swigart Dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, its risk assessment suggests a moderate level of risk that should be addressed through proactive measures. With its primary purpose focused on fire protection and water storage, the dam plays a vital role in supporting the water needs of the area. As a fan of water resources and climate, keeping an eye on Swigart Dam's maintenance and risk management efforts can provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.31 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Swigart Dam