Goeser Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Goeser Dam, located in Dow City, Iowa, is a private earth dam built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS with the primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 42 feet and spans a length of 339 feet, providing a storage capacity of 28 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Boyer River, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is used for water resource management in Crawford County.

Despite its low hazard potential, Goeser Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and providing water for agricultural and recreational purposes in the region. The dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the state regulatory agency to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, efforts are being made to enhance risk management measures and emergency preparedness for the dam.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Goeser Dam in sustaining the local ecosystem and supporting community needs. Its strategic location on the Boyer River and its multi-purpose design underscore the importance of responsible water resource management and the role of infrastructure in adapting to changing climate conditions. As a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, Goeser Dam serves as a symbol of resilience and stewardship in safeguarding water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

339

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

TR-BOYER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

42
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.