Hatfield Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Hatfield Dam, located in Adair County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1963, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, livestock watering, and small fish pond creation. With a height of 22 feet and a length of 486 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 146 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk potential due to its age and condition assessment being labeled as "Not Rated".
The dam is situated on the TR-EAST NODAWAY river and is managed by the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Its primary purpose is to provide essential services to the local community while also contributing to water resource management in the region. Although the dam has not been inspected since 1967, it is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and is under the jurisdiction of state regulators who ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Overall, Hatfield Dam represents a vital infrastructure for water management and climate resilience in the area.
As a key feature in the local water infrastructure, Hatfield Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks, providing water for livestock, and supporting recreational activities. Its location in a rural setting underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in ensuring the resilience of ecosystems and communities. With a history dating back to the 1960s, the dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water needs with environmental protection and climate adaptation. By staying vigilant in monitoring and maintaining the dam, stakeholders can continue to benefit from its services while safeguarding against potential risks in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
486 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST NODAWAY |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
146 |
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.
Hatfield Dam