Snakenburg Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Snakenburg Dam, located in Jefferson County, Iowa, is a vital water resource managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 1985, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet, with a length of 385 feet, and a storage capacity of 123 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for fire protection, as well as for creating a stock or small fish pond. It is also regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Snakenburg Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam is designed to control the flow of the Richland Creek tributary, contributing to flood control and water conservation efforts. Although not currently rated for its condition, the dam is regularly inspected, meeting state permitting and enforcement requirements to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community.

Overall, Snakenburg Dam serves as a key infrastructure for water management and conservation in Jefferson County, Iowa. Its strategic location and design by the USDA NRCS make it a valuable asset for fire protection and aquatic habitat enhancement. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of well-maintained dams like Snakenburg in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions becomes increasingly evident.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR- RICHLAND CR.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.4

Drainage Area

0.32

Nid Storage

123

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.