Baker Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Barclay Dam Holiday Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Baker Dam, located in Poweshiek County, Iowa, is a private-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, livestock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans 510 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 246 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Walnut Creek near the Iowa River, the dam serves as a recreational area with a surface area of 14.7 acres and a drainage area of 0.48 square miles.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Baker Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition remains unrated as of the last inspection in 1978. While emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) have not been updated, Baker Dam continues to provide essential services for the local community and wildlife, highlighting the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
With its scenic location and multiple purposes, Baker Dam not only safeguards against fires and provides water for livestock but also offers a recreational retreat for visitors. As part of the Detroit District under the USDA NRCS, the dam's construction and design reflect a commitment to water conservation and environmental stewardship. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, we recognize Baker Dam as a vital infrastructure supporting both ecological balance and human needs, underscoring the interconnectedness of water management and climate adaptation in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WALNUT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.48 |
Nid Storage |
246 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Walnut Creek Near Hartwick
|
13cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
Iowa River Near Belle Plaine
|
966cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
Big Bear Creek At Ladora
|
55cfs |
Iowa River At Marengo
|
818cfs |
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.
Baker Dam