Sump Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Halliday Dam Van Fossen Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Braddyville, Iowa, the Sump Dam is a private earth dam that was completed in 2013 for the primary purpose of grade stabilization.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at 29 feet high and spans 414 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary to the Nodaway River, it serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the Sump Dam is not regulated by the state of Iowa and does not require regular inspections or permitting. The dam has no outlet gates and is primarily constructed of stone on a soil foundation. Despite its relatively small surface area of 3 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and contributes to the overall ecosystem health of the region.
While the Sump Dam may not be as prominent as larger dams in the region, its significance lies in its role in grade stabilization and water management. As a key structure designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, it serves as a testament to the importance of local initiatives in preserving water resources and adapting to the changing climate. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Sump Dam represents a valuable asset in the sustainable management of water resources in Iowa.
Year Completed |
2013 |
Dam Length |
414 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Nodaway River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.14 |
Nid Storage |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Sump Dam