Buch Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carl Dam Walton Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Buch Dam, located in Benton County, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
With a height of 32 feet and a length of 440 feet, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. It has a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres.
Managed by the Iowa DNR, Buch Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, it carries a moderate risk rating due to its condition assessment being not rated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is situated on TR-Buckeye Creek, a tributary of the Iowa River.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Buch Dam presents an interesting case study in dam infrastructure in the Midwest. Its design, construction, and purpose highlight the importance of water management for agricultural and environmental needs in the region. With its location in a rural setting and connection to the local watershed, Buch Dam serves as a vital resource for both human and wildlife populations in the area.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BUCKEYE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Iowa River Near Belle Plaine
|
966cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
Iowa River At Marengo
|
818cfs |
Big Bear Creek At Ladora
|
51cfs |
Walnut Creek Near Hartwick
|
13cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
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.
Buch Dam