Black Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Larkin Dam Groseclose Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Black Dam, located in Story, Iowa, along the TR-South Skunk River, is a private earth dam primarily used for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1980 by USDA NRCS, this dam has a height of 42 feet and a length of 350 feet, with a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. With a surface area of 4.6 acres and a drainage area of 0.16 square miles, Black Dam serves as a vital water resource in the region.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Black Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition remains unrated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is situated in a picturesque location, making it a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to visit and appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices in the region.
As part of the Rock Island District, Black Dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are currently not rated or updated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water infrastructure. With its rich history and significant contribution to the local ecosystem, Black Dam stands as a symbol of resilience and serves as a reminder of the critical role that sustainable water resource management plays in mitigating the impacts of climate change on our environment.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH SKUNK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Black Dam