Larkin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Groseclose Dam Black Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Larkin Dam, located in Story County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 290 feet, with a storage capacity of 38 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-SKUNK RIVER and is regulated by the Iowa DNR, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
With a moderate risk assessment rating and low hazard potential, Larkin Dam serves as a vital resource for water management and conservation in the region. The dam's primary function is to provide essential services such as fire protection and water storage for livestock and small fish ponds. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for its current condition, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks.
Although Larkin Dam has not undergone recent inspections or condition assessments, its strategic location and design play a crucial role in the overall water infrastructure of the area. The dam's controlled spillway and earth construction make it a reliable asset for flood control and water storage, contributing to the overall resilience of the region's water resource management system. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Larkin Dam is essential for promoting sustainable water practices and safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
290 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SKUNK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
38 |
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.
Larkin Dam