Sutton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sutton Dam in Iowa is a private dam completed in 1988 for fire protection and as a small fish pond, with a storage capacity of 142 acre-feet and a normal storage of 83 acre-feet.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Located on the TR-OPOSSUM CREEK in Benton County, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in a moderate risk assessment category. The dam is earth-filled, with a height of 20 feet and a length of 330 feet, serving multiple purposes while also being regulated and inspected by the Iowa DNR.

This dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, offering protection against fires and providing a habitat for small fish. The dam's location in the Detroit District and the involvement of the Iowa DNR ensure that it is maintained and inspected regularly to uphold safety standards. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to a moderate risk assessment, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of Sutton Dam in balancing water storage needs with environmental considerations. As part of the overall water infrastructure in Iowa, the dam contributes to flood control and wildlife conservation efforts. With its unique design and multiple purposes, Sutton Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in the region, showcasing the integration of human needs with ecological responsibilities.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-OPOSSUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

142

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.