Hopkins Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hopkins Dam, located in Davis County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of providing fire protection and creating a small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 416 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, the dam serves as a crucial resource for water management in the area.

The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a vital component of the local ecosystem while also safeguarding against potential floods. Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Hopkins Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and continued functionality. Its location along the TR-Bear Creek and proximity to Floris further highlight its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Despite its age, Hopkins Dam remains a reliable asset for fire protection and stock purposes, reflecting its enduring significance in the community. While it may not have significant modifications or associated structures, its role in water storage and environmental conservation underscores the importance of sustainable infrastructure in mitigating climate impacts. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, the preservation and proper maintenance of Hopkins Dam are key to ensuring the resilience of local water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

416

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.