Gentleman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Gentleman Dam, located in Appanoose County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1987.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 30 feet tall and has a length of 350 feet, providing fire protection and serving as a pond for small fish and livestock. With a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet, the dam's primary purpose is to support these essential functions while also regulating water flow in the TR-Rathbun Reservoir.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, Gentleman Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. While not currently rated for its condition, the dam is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. As part of the Rock Island District, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region, serving as a vital component in the local ecosystem and contributing to the overall climate resilience of the area.

With its strategic location in Rathbun Reservoir and its essential role in mitigating fire risks and supporting local wildlife, Gentleman Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and infrastructure development. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of structures like Gentleman Dam in maintaining ecological balance and supporting community needs is crucial for ensuring sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR- RATHBUN RESERVOIR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.1

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

71

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.