Lemke Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stroburg Dam Linn Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Lemke Dam, located in Adair County, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this private dam stands at a height of 28 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 297 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-South Fork Middle River, Lemke Dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite its low hazard potential, Lemke Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a rating of 3 out of 5. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and while it has not been modified in recent years, its condition is currently not rated. The surrounding area covers a surface area of 30 acres, serving a drainage area of 0.5 square miles. With its primary purpose being the protection of local resources and livestock, Lemke Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region.
As a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, Lemke Dam provides essential support for fire prevention, agricultural activities, and habitat preservation. With its strategic location and functionality, this earth dam remains a key asset in the management of water resources and climate-related challenges in Adair County, Iowa.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH FORK MIDDLE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
297 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Lemke Dam