Hopkins Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hopkins Dam, located in Davis County, Iowa, was completed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

This private dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a length of 368 feet, with a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-SOAP CREEK, it is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Hopkins Dam poses a moderate risk due to its age and lack of a formal condition assessment. The dam's spillway, designated as uncontrolled, has a width of 0 feet, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to prevent potential risks and ensure its long-term stability. The dam is managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and plays a vital role in water resource management and conservation efforts in the region.

As an integral part of the DES MOINES RIVER watershed, Hopkins Dam not only provides essential water storage for fire protection and wildlife habitat but also contributes to the overall ecological health of the area. With a surface area of 4 acres and a drainage area of 0.16 square miles, this earth dam serves as a critical infrastructure for the local community and stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

368

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-SOAP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

45

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.