Bartlett Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Norelius Dam Moller/Frahm Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Bartlett Dam, located in Crawford County, Iowa, is a private earth dam completed in 1964 with a primary purpose of fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond.
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Summary
The dam is owned by a private entity and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. With a height of 31 feet and a length of 453 feet, Bartlett Dam has a storage capacity of 162 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres.
The dam, situated on Otter Creek, has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. It features an uncontrolled spillway and is primarily constructed of soil. Although the dam's condition assessment is not rated, it undergoes regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety regulations. The surrounding area is at moderate risk (3) due to potential inundation, prompting the need for risk management measures.
Overall, Bartlett Dam plays a crucial role in providing fire protection and supporting local wildlife in the region. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the dam's design by the USDA NRCS and its contribution to the conservation of water resources in Iowa. The dam's location in Denison, its modest storage capacity, and its state-regulated status make it a noteworthy structure for those interested in sustainable water management practices and the intersection of infrastructure with environmental protection.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
453 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR-OTTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
1.11 |
Nid Storage |
162 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
Little Sioux River Near Turin
|
1040cfs |
Monona-Harrison Ditch Near Turin
|
158cfs |
Soldier River At Pisgah
|
112cfs |
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.
Bartlett Dam