Koch Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gonseth Dam Erickson Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Koch Dam, located in Clarke County, Iowa, was completed in 1976 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, creating a stock or small fish pond, and supplying water.
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Summary
The dam is owned and regulated by the local government and falls under the jurisdiction of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 170 feet, Koch Dam has a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.8 acres. The dam is primarily constructed with earth and has a soil foundation.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Koch Dam has not been rated for its condition. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and is not equipped with outlet gates. The emergency action plan for the dam has not been prepared, and the last inspection date is unknown. However, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the state regulatory agency to ensure its safety and functionality. With its strategic location on the TR-South River, Koch Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Overall, Koch Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for fire protection, stock, and water supply in the Clarke County area. As a locally owned and regulated structure, the dam contributes to the conservation and management of water resources while also providing recreational opportunities for the community. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, continued monitoring and maintenance of Koch Dam are essential to ensure its long-term effectiveness and safety for both residents and the environment.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
170 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Middle River Near Indianola
|
48cfs |
South River Near Ackworth
|
18cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
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.
Koch Dam