Molkenthin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Molkenthin Dam, located in Ollie, Iowa, is a private dam built in 1975 by USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at 30 feet tall and spans 412 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-South Skunk River, the dam has a surface area of 7.3 acres and drains a watershed area of 0.23 square miles.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, Molkenthin Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state. Classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place. With a spillway type of "Uncontrolled," the dam serves as a vital resource for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes in addition to its recreational use. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Molkenthin Dam offers a fascinating case study of a privately owned structure with important implications for environmental management and conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

412

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH SKUNK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.3

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

108

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.