Perkins Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Perkins Dam, located in Mahaska County, Iowa, serves as a vital resource for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1958 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 482 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 113 acre-feet and a surface area of 6.8 acres, Perkins Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Managed by a private entity, Perkins Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been formally assessed since its last inspection in 1961. With a moderate risk assessment score, there is a need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of Perkins Dam for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

As part of the Rock Island District, Perkins Dam's uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation highlight the importance of regular maintenance and oversight to prevent any potential hazards or risks associated with the dam's operation. While the dam currently meets its primary purposes, ongoing efforts to assess its condition, update emergency action plans, and implement risk management measures will be essential in safeguarding this critical water resource and preserving its functionality for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

482

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH SKUNK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.8

Drainage Area

0.35

Nid Storage

113

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.