Loch Burns Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gleich Dam Izzak Walton League Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Loch Burns Dam, located in Ottumwa, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1963.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam stands at 30 feet tall and spans 270 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Situated on TR-Sugar Creek, Loch Burns Dam serves as a low hazard structure with a fair condition assessment as of February 2013. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk rating, the dam poses minimal risk to downstream areas. The surrounding area offers a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of this man-made structure and its importance in providing recreational opportunities for the community.
As one of the many dams in the Rock Island District, Loch Burns Dam contributes to the overall water management system in the region. Its presence not only supports recreational activities but also plays a role in flood control and water supply. With its unique features and scenic location in Wapello County, Loch Burns Dam is a noteworthy site for those interested in exploring the intersection of water resources, climate, and infrastructure development.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SUGAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
15cfs |
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.
Loch Burns Dam