Hickory Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Hickory Lake Dam, located in Polk, Iowa, was completed in 1970 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, is privately owned and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. It spans 315 feet in length and stands at a height of 34 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 113 acre-feet with a normal storage capacity of 72 acre-feet.

Situated on TR-Four Mile Creek, Hickory Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. The dam features an earth structure with a soil foundation and an uncontrolled spillway type. Despite its last inspection dating back to 1997, the dam remains in a "Not Rated" condition assessment, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With its scenic location and environmental impact on the surrounding area, Hickory Lake Dam serves as a vital component in water resource management for the community of Berwick and beyond.

While Hickory Lake Dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, its presence contributes to the overall water management strategy for the region. With its capacity to provide essential services such as fire protection and stock pond management, the dam plays a crucial role in enhancing the resilience of the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Hickory Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term functionality and safety.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR-FOUR MILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.4

Drainage Area

0.52

Nid Storage

113

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.