Grau Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dorfler Dam Lacey Dam
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Grau Dam, located in Ute, Iowa, along the TR-Soldier River, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Completed in 1945, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and stretches 350 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition has not been rated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
Owned and regulated by a private entity in Crawford County, Iowa, Grau Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan and risk management measures are not fully documented, raising concerns about preparedness in the event of a potential failure. With a surface area of 1.7 acres and a drainage area of 0.17 square miles, Grau Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
As a water resource and climate enthusiast, Grau Dam offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety. With its unique design and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam ownership and maintenance practices in ensuring the sustainable use of water resources for generations to come. Engaging with stakeholders and regulatory agencies to address any gaps in emergency preparedness and risk management will be crucial in safeguarding this vital piece of infrastructure for the future.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOLDIER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.17 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
Little Sioux River Near Turin
|
1040cfs |
Monona-Harrison Ditch Near Turin
|
158cfs |
West Fork Ditch At Hornick
|
80cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
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.
Grau Dam