Gustafson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Gustafson Dam, located in Holstein, Iowa, was completed in 1967 and is primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Owned privately, this earth dam stands at 26 feet high and spans 575 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres. Situated on TR-Silver Creek, this dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Gustafson Dam is considered to be in fair condition, although its emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are currently not rated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is surrounded by natural soil foundations. Despite its modest size, Gustafson Dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and water resource management, serving as a recreational hub for residents and visitors alike.
Managed by the USDA NRCS, Gustafson Dam stands as a testament to effective collaboration between private owners and state agencies in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in Cherokee County, Iowa. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, Gustafson Dam serves as a crucial infrastructure piece for managing water flow and providing recreational opportunities in the region. Its presence highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure the long-term resilience of water infrastructure in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SILVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.55 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
Little Sioux River At Linn Grove
|
257cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
Floyd River At Alton
|
36cfs |
West Fork Ditch At Hornick
|
80cfs |
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.
Gustafson Dam