Graettinger Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Graettinger Dam, located in Palo Alto County, Iowa, was completed in 1972 with the primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond.
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Summary
The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, is an earth-type structure standing at 30 feet high and stretching 378 feet in length. It is situated on TR-Jack Creek and has a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 27 acre-feet.
Managed by a private owner, Graettinger Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While the dam is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, its risk management measures and emergency action plan status are not specified in the data. Despite its condition assessment, the dam serves as a vital resource for water storage and fire protection in the area, showcasing the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure its longevity and effectiveness in the face of changing climate conditions.
Overall, Graettinger Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in Emmetsburg, Iowa. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and oversight to ensure its continued functionality. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and supporting infrastructure like Graettinger Dam is essential to safeguarding communities and ecosystems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
378 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-JACK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
42 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Graettinger Dam