Rathbun Farms Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ewing Farms Dam Faber Trust Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Rathbun Farms Dam, located in Rathbun Reservoir, Iowa, was completed in 1986 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.
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Summary
This private dam, designed by SCS, stands at a height of 29 feet with a length of 700 feet. It has a storage capacity of 132 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12.1 acres, contributing to the conservation and management of water resources in the region.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Rathbun Farms Dam is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam is primarily earth-filled with a soil foundation and is regulated and inspected by the state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. While the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, it continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.
With its location on the TR-Walker Creek and its proximity to the Rock Island District, Rathbun Farms Dam is a key component of the local infrastructure. While the dam does not have outlet gates or a controlled spillway, its uncontrolled spillway type helps in managing water flow during periods of high discharge. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the design, purpose, and maintenance of structures like Rathbun Farms Dam is essential for sustainable water management and environmental stewardship in the region.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR- WALKER CR. |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.14 |
Nid Storage |
132 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Rathbun Farms Dam
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