Harkrader Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Harkrader Dam, located in Dallas County, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and stock or small fish pond management.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans a length of 475 feet, with a storage capacity of 220 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-North Raccoon River, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a surface area of 12 acres and a drainage area of 1.25 square miles.

Managed by a private owner, Harkrader Dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam is an essential component of the local water infrastructure. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, Harkrader Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a part of the Rock Island District, Harkrader Dam is supported by federal agencies such as the Natural Resources Conservation Service. With its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, this dam is a key feature in the landscape of Van Meter, Iowa. With its longstanding history and ongoing commitment to water resource management, Harkrader Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure for climate adaptation in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH RACCOON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

1.25

Nid Storage

220

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.