Dzaboff Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dzaboff Dam, located in Hopkinton, Iowa, was completed in 1970 by the USDA NRCS and is currently owned and regulated by a private entity.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 28 feet and spanning 454 feet in length, serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 139 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Allison Creek and is state-regulated by the Iowa DNR, ensuring regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its functionality and safety.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Dzaboff Dam presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of water management and recreation in a natural setting. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and soil foundation, along with its scenic location in Delaware County, Iowa, offer a captivating study in sustainable dam construction and operation. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Dzaboff Dam exemplifies the balance between human recreation and environmental stewardship in managing water resources.

As a site managed by NRCS and with no USACE involvement, Dzaboff Dam represents a successful partnership between private ownership and state regulation in ensuring the safety and functionality of a crucial water resource. Its presence on Allison Creek contributes to the local ecosystem and provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it a valuable asset for both residents and visitors alike. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dzaboff Dam serves as a prime example of responsible dam construction and management in harmony with nature.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

454

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

0707TR-ALLISON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

139

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.