Hickenbottom Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hickenbottom Dam, located in Jefferson, Iowa, on the Skunk River, was completed in 1985 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing a small fish pond for the local community.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 280 feet, with a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet. The dam is state-regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Hickenbottom Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating some potential risks that need to be managed. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates or locks associated with the structure. The surrounding area has a surface area of 2.4 acres and a drainage area of 0.1 square miles, making it a relatively small but important water resource for the local ecosystem.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Hickenbottom Dam to be a fascinating example of a privately-owned structure that plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection and supporting local wildlife. Its location on the Skunk River and its state-regulated status by the Iowa DNR make it a significant feature in the region's water management infrastructure. As efforts to address climate change and water scarcity continue to grow, understanding the design, purpose, and management of dams like Hickenbottom will be essential for ensuring the sustainability of our water resources.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR- CEDAR CR. |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
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.
Hickenbottom Dam