Longinaker Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Smith Dam Cheney Dam
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Located in Fremont County, Iowa, the Longinaker Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management since its completion in 1965 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond, this earth dam spans 875 feet in length and reaches a height of 27 feet, holding a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-West Nishnabotna River and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite its low hazard potential, the Longinaker Dam is considered to have moderate risk due to its location and design characteristics. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is primarily used for fire protection and agricultural purposes, serving as a vital resource for the local community in Hamburg. With a drainage area of 0.7 square miles and a surface area of 8 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, contributing to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Longinaker Dam represents a harmonious blend of human innovation and environmental stewardship, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its strategic design and regulatory oversight, the dam serves as a model for effective infrastructure development in the face of evolving climate challenges. As we look towards the future, the Longinaker Dam stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of a changing world, highlighting the essential role of water resources in safeguarding our communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
875 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST NISHNABOTNA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
|
349cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
762cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
25100cfs |
East Nishnabotna River At Red Oak
|
302cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
6400cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Longinaker Dam