Holm Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Koop Dam Hunemiller Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Holm Dam is a privately owned structure located in Cedar River, Iowa, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1969 by USDA SCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 502 feet, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Beaver Creek, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its low hazard potential, a moderate risk assessment of 3 has been assigned to the dam.
The dam's location in Butler County, Iowa, makes it a vital resource for water management in the region. With a surface area of 3 acres and a drainage area of 0.21 square miles, Holm Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection and supporting local aquatic life. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, its construction and design by USDA SCS reflect a commitment to effective water resource management and conservation.
As a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates, Holm Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure. Its modest size and purpose may belay its significance, but the dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of water resources and the environment. With proper regulation and maintenance in place, Holm Dam continues to be a valuable asset for the community, supporting both practical needs and ecological diversity in the Cedar River area.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
502 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.21 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Beaver Creek At New Hartford
|
123cfs |
West Fork Cedar River At Finchford
|
502cfs |
Shell Rock River At Shell Rock
|
484cfs |
Cedar River At Janesville
|
711cfs |
Cedar River At Cedar Falls
|
1880cfs |
Cedar River At Waverly
|
436cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Thunder Woman Park
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Roadman Roadside Park
|
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Black Hawk County Park
|
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Shell Rock Rec Area
|
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Big Woods Lake
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Holm Dam
Finchford Road Black Hawk County