Steinbeck Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hannen Lake Dam Schultice Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Steinbeck Dam, located in Marengo, Iowa, along the TR-Iowa River, serves as a vital resource for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1989, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and stretches 326 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The dam also boasts a surface area of 4.3 acres and a drainage area of 0.09 square miles, making it a key component in water management and conservation efforts in the region.
Managed by a private entity, Steinbeck Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition remains unrated, with no recent inspection data available. While it lacks certain features such as outlet gates and spillways, the dam continues to play a crucial role in maintaining water resources and safeguarding against potential emergencies in the area.
The Steinbeck Dam not only serves as a functional structure for water management but also contributes to the overall ecological balance of its surroundings. With its strategic location and purposeful design, this dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management practices and the importance of private-public partnerships in safeguarding our environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
326 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR- IOWA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Iowa River At Marengo
|
818cfs |
Iowa River Near Belle Plaine
|
966cfs |
Big Bear Creek At Ladora
|
51cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
Walnut Creek Near Hartwick
|
13cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
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.
Steinbeck Dam