Raber Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Findley Dam O Brien Dam
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Raber Dam, located on the South Raccoon River in Guthrie County, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing a habitat for small fish.
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Summary
Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this private dam stands at a height of 37 feet with a length of 534 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 327 acre-feet. The dam is primarily regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its low hazard potential, Raber Dam poses a moderate risk due to its age and the lack of a detailed condition assessment. While the dam has not been rated in terms of its current condition, it is essential to monitor and maintain this critical infrastructure to mitigate any potential risks to downstream communities and the surrounding environment. It is noteworthy that the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, which underscores the importance of implementing comprehensive risk management measures to enhance public safety and ensure the long-term sustainability of the structure.
In conclusion, Raber Dam stands as a vital water resource for the local community, providing essential services such as fire protection and wildlife habitat. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it is imperative to prioritize the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Raber to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the resilience of our water systems in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
534 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LONG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Drainage Area |
0.73 |
Nid Storage |
327 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Raber Dam