Deemer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Deemer Dam, located in Rathbun Reservoir, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by SCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.


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Summary

Completed in 1984, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 470 feet, with a storage capacity of 122 acre-feet. Its primary purposes include fire protection and serving as a pond for small fish or livestock. The dam is situated on TR- Duck Valley Creek, within the Rock Island District, and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Iowa.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Deemer Dam has not received a condition rating and lacks an emergency action plan. With no recorded inspections or maintenance activities, there is a need for increased oversight and assessment to ensure the safety and functionality of this structure. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Deemer Dam to be an intriguing case study for understanding the importance of proper regulation and maintenance in ensuring the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR- DUCK VALLEY CR.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.9

Drainage Area

0.52

Nid Storage

122

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.