Combs Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wagner Dam Rhinehart Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Combs Dam, located in Poweshiek County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to serve multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 500 feet, with a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-North Fork English River, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Combs Dam poses a moderate risk due to its condition being not rated and lacking recent inspection data. It is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the area. With a surface area of 7.9 acres and a drainage area of 0.3 square miles, this dam not only provides essential water storage but also contributes to the overall ecosystem health and biodiversity of the region.
As a part of the larger water infrastructure system in the Detroit District, Combs Dam serves as a key component in the local water management strategy. With its primary purpose being fire protection and stock and small fish pond creation, this dam is a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. Its location in Victor, Iowa, makes it a significant structure in ensuring water availability for both human and ecological needs in the region.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH FORK ENGLISH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Walnut Creek Near Hartwick
|
13cfs |
Big Bear Creek At Ladora
|
37cfs |
Iowa River Near Belle Plaine
|
966cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
Iowa River At Marengo
|
818cfs |
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.
Combs Dam