Crystal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Crystal Lake Dam, located in Chariton, Iowa, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1915, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 558 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1500 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Chariton River, this dam poses a significant hazard potential and has a fair condition assessment as of June 2017.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Crystal Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a spillway width of 100 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, the dam is equipped to handle potential overflow events. Despite the moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is considered to meet regulatory guidelines, although the emergency action plan and risk management measures are not explicitly outlined in the available data.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find interest in the historical significance and engineering aspects of Crystal Lake Dam, as well as its role in providing recreational opportunities in the Lucas County area. The dam's location along the Chariton River adds to the environmental diversity of the region, making it a focal point for both conservation efforts and public enjoyment. As a vital component in the local water infrastructure, understanding the management and maintenance of Crystal Lake Dam is crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of this important water resource.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

558

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-CHARITON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

77

Drainage Area

3.05

Nid Storage

1500

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.