Bruggemeyer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bruggemeyer Dam, located in Lowell, Iowa, was completed in 2000 by the NRCS for grade stabilization purposes along TR-Big Creek.


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Summary

This private dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 580 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet. The dam, primarily made of earth and stone core, serves to prevent erosion and stabilize the surrounding area.

Despite being categorized as having low hazard potential, Bruggemeyer Dam is considered to have moderate risk with a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and it does not have an emergency action plan in place. The structure is not regulated or inspected by state agencies, but it serves an essential function in maintaining the stability of the creek and surrounding land. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may appreciate the strategic role Bruggemeyer Dam plays in managing water flow and preventing erosion in the area.

Overall, Bruggemeyer Dam is a vital component of water resource management in Henry County, Iowa. Its construction and purpose highlight the importance of sustainable infrastructure in safeguarding against environmental risks and ensuring the long-term health of water resources. The dam's low hazard potential combined with its moderate risk rating underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its critical functions for grade stabilization along TR-Big Creek.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.