Nemitz Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Nemitz Dam, located in Crawford County, Iowa, is a private-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.


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Summary

Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at 31 feet high and spans 466 feet in length, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres, Nemitz Dam serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.

The dam, situated on TR-PARADISE CREEK, plays a crucial role in fire protection, stock, and recreation activities, while also contributing to the overall drainage area of 0.23 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the condition of Nemitz Dam is currently not rated. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Nemitz Dam in maintaining water security and environmental balance in the region.

With its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, Nemitz Dam represents a key element in the water infrastructure of Iowa. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and monitoring the condition of structures like Nemitz Dam becomes increasingly important for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water systems in the area. By staying informed and advocating for responsible water management practices, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation and resilience of essential water resources like Nemitz Dam.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

466

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR-PARADISE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

48

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.