Riemenschneider Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Riemenschneider Dam, located in Marshalltown, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.


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Summary

Completed in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and stretches 456 feet in length, providing fire protection and serving as a pond for small fish or livestock. With a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.2 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Riemenschneider Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. It does not have a current condition assessment rating and lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). While the dam has not been modified in recent years and does not feature outlet gates or locks, it remains subject to state jurisdiction, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's purpose, along with its location on TR-Linn Creek, highlights the importance of maintaining this structure for both water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Overall, Riemenschneider Dam represents a significant piece of infrastructure in Marshalltown, Iowa, contributing to fire protection and water management for the local community. With its design by the USDA NRCS and regulation by the Iowa DNR, the dam serves as a vital resource for maintaining water levels and providing recreational opportunities. As efforts continue to assess and manage the dam's risk level, it remains a focal point for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates alike in the ongoing conversation surrounding sustainable water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

456

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-LINN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.2

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.