Hickenbottom Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Hickenbottom Dam, located in Van Buren County, Iowa, was completed in 1959 and is owned by a private entity.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and stretches 317 feet in length. Its primary purposes include fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond, with a storage capacity of 37 acre-feet.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Hickenbottom Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type of this dam ensures the safety of the surrounding area in the event of overflow. The dam's location on TR-Big Cedar Creek in the city of Rome highlights its importance in managing water resources for the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hickenbottom Dam presents a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and management. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a critical asset for fire protection and agricultural needs in the area. Its relatively low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment underscore the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
317 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.27 |
Nid Storage |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
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.
Hickenbottom Dam