Pacha Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pacha Dam, located in Skunk River, Jefferson, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1975 by USDA NRCS, this privately owned dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches over 630 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 7 acres and drains a 0.25 square mile watershed.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Pacha Dam undergoes state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Iowa DNR. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is designed with an uncontrolled spillway and is primarily used for irrigation and livestock management in the surrounding area. Although the dam's condition remains unrated, its design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in managing water resources in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Pacha Dam for its contribution to fire protection and agricultural activities in the area. Its strategic location on TR-Middle Walnut Creek not only provides essential water supply but also enhances the overall ecosystem health in Jefferson County. With its long history of service and commitment to environmental sustainability, Pacha Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and the importance of private-public partnerships in maintaining critical infrastructure.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR-MIDDLE WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

112

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.