Bernstein Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wagner Dam Mc Clain Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bernstein Dam in Iowa is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1979 by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Located in Poweshiek County, the dam stands at 27 feet in height and spans a length of 330 feet, with a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is designated as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment.
The dam is situated on the TR-English River and is managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. While it has not been rated for its condition assessment, it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The dam's primary purpose is to provide water resources for fire protection and livestock, making it a vital asset for the local community. With its location in a rural area of Gurnsey, Iowa, the Bernstein Dam contributes to the overall water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
As an essential infrastructure for water storage and management, Bernstein Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flooding events and ensuring a stable water supply for agricultural and environmental needs. Its presence on the English River contributes to the overall water quality and availability in the area. Climate enthusiasts and water resource stakeholders can appreciate the significance of Bernstein Dam in maintaining a sustainable water ecosystem and supporting the local community's water-related activities.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ENGLISH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.25 |
Nid Storage |
49 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Walnut Creek Near Hartwick
|
13cfs |
Big Bear Creek At Ladora
|
37cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
Iowa River Near Belle Plaine
|
966cfs |
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
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.
Bernstein Dam