Gustafson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Gustafson Lake Dam, located in Sioux Rapids, Iowa, is a state-owned structure designed by the Iowa Department of Transportation.


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Summary

Completed in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 49 feet and spans a length of 1150 feet, with a storage capacity of 176 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Gustafson Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. The dam poses a significant hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the condition of the dam is currently not rated, regular inspections and maintenance are conducted to ensure its safety and integrity for the surrounding community.

Situated along the TR-Little Sioux River, Gustafson Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and providing recreational opportunities in Buena Vista County, Iowa. With its scenic surroundings and important function, this dam serves as a key piece of infrastructure for both water resource management and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1150

Dam Height

49

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE SIOUX RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.7

Drainage Area

0.36

Nid Storage

176

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

49
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.