Waterhouse Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Waterhouse Dam, located in Coppock, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing a pond for stock or small fish.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this private dam stands at 29 feet high and stretches 442 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 39 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Dutch Creek, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Waterhouse Dam is essential for water resource management in Washington County, Iowa. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated. However, it meets state permitting requirements and is equipped to handle emergencies, though the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status is not specified. As a notable structure in the area, Waterhouse Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting local wildlife.

Water enthusiasts and climate advocates can appreciate the significance of Waterhouse Dam in safeguarding the surrounding environment and providing essential water resources. With its earth construction and soil foundation, the dam contributes to flood control and water storage, while also serving as a valuable asset for the community. Its location on TR-Dutch Creek highlights the interconnectedness of water systems within the region, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Waterhouse to ensure water sustainability for future generations.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

442

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-DUTCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.9

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

39

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.