Springbrook Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Springbrook Lake Dam, located in Lake Panorama, Iowa, is a state-regulated earth dam built in 1934 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a length of 580 feet, with a storage capacity of 187 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TR-Middle Raccoon River and has a spillway width of 34 feet, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and water resource enthusiasts alike.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of June 2016. Regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam poses some level of risk, prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications, it remains a key feature of the local landscape and a source of recreation for the community.

As part of the Rock Island District, Springbrook Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Guthrie County, Iowa. With its historic significance and recreational value, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable dam operation and maintenance practices in the face of changing climate patterns. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate resilience will find Springbrook Lake Dam to be a captivating site worth exploring and studying in the context of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-MIDDLE RACCOON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

2.54

Nid Storage

187

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.