Holm Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Holm Dam, located in Patterson, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 36 feet with a length of 580 feet, creating a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.6 acres. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Holm Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.
Situated on the TR-Fletcher Branch river, Holm Dam serves as a vital resource for water management and recreation in the area, offering opportunities for fishing and wildlife habitat enhancement. Although it lacks certain features like outlet gates and spillway controls, the dam's design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflects a commitment to sustainable water resource management. With its location in Madison County, Iowa, and under the jurisdiction of the Kansas City District, Holm Dam is a key component of the local ecosystem and contributes to the overall water infrastructure of the region.
Overall, Holm Dam represents a harmonious balance between human needs for water resource management and environmental conservation. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, the dam plays an essential role in providing fire protection, livestock watering, and recreational opportunities while maintaining a low-risk profile. With its solid construction and regular inspections, Holm Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and climate adaptation in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FLETCHER BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.32 |
Nid Storage |
112 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Middle River Near Indianola
|
48cfs |
Raccoon River At 63rd Street At Des Moines
|
587cfs |
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.
Holm Dam