Wright Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Wright Dam, located in the picturesque city of Cincinnati, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing a small fish pond.
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Summary
Constructed in 1990, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 430 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 28 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 60 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 5.2 acres and drains a 0.12 square mile area.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Wright Dam on Shoal Creek poses a low hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by state regulatory agencies. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is designed to withstand the hydraulic pressures associated with its location.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location of Wright Dam, nestled in the beautiful Appanoose County of Iowa. With its serene surroundings and vital water management functions, this dam is a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource development and management in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SHOAL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Wright Dam