Waterhouse Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Waterhouse Dam, located in Coppock, Iowa, is a private earth dam constructed in 1977 by the USDA NRCS for fire protection and as a water source for stock and small fish ponds.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans a length of 380 feet, with a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Dutch Creek in Washington County, this dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and adheres to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Waterhouse Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with no specific measures outlined for risk management. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and there is no information available on its emergency action plan or inundation maps. With a surface area of 2.5 acres and a drainage area of 0.2 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for both agricultural and ecological needs in the region.

Waterhouse Dam's presence serves as a valuable asset for the community, offering essential water supplies for fire protection and livestock. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is essential to monitor and maintain structures like this dam to ensure their safety and effectiveness in providing sustainable water access. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can appreciate the importance of maintaining and regulating dams like Waterhouse to support both human and environmental needs in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-DUTCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

44

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.