Crystal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Crystal Lake Dam in DeWitt, Iowa, is a private earth dam built in 1900 for recreational purposes along Crystal Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 24 feet and stretching 490 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 465 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 210 acre-feet and a surface area of 35 acres. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential and not yet rated in terms of condition assessment, the dam's risk assessment is moderate. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 67 feet, and the dam is surrounded by rock and soil foundations. The last inspection date recorded was in October 1992, and there is no information available on the emergency action plan or risk management measures in place. With its location in Clinton County, Iowa, and its proximity to Detroit District, Crystal Lake Dam serves as a valuable recreational resource for the local community and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Crystal Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Drainage Area

9.6

Nid Storage

465

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.