Bateman Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bateman Dam, located in Mills County, Iowa, was completed in 1945 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
The dam, classified as an earth dam, stands at a height of 32 feet with a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet. Situated on Plum Creek, the dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition.
Managed by a private entity, the dam falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. While the dam does not have a controlled spillway, it is designed to manage uncontrolled spill events. The risk assessment for Bateman Dam is moderate, indicating a certain level of potential risk associated with the structure.
Although the dam does not have associated structures or outlet gates, it remains a significant feature in the region for water resource management and climate enthusiasts. With its historical significance and multi-purpose functionality, Bateman Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the area.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
20 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
PLUM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
2.06 |
Nid Storage |
119 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
|
420cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
25100cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
605cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
6300cfs |
East Nishnabotna River At Red Oak
|
270cfs |
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.
Bateman Dam