Kerns Farms Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wilson Lake Dam Routh Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Kerns Farms Dam, located in Ringgold County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1989.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and stretches 480 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 47 acre-feet, and covers a surface area of 6.9 acres.
Situated on the TR-Platte River, Kerns Farms Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes state permitting, inspections, and enforcement. Classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is currently in a not-rated condition assessment status. While its spillway type is uncontrolled, the dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have an emergency action plan in place. However, it is noted to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3.
Owned by private individuals, Kerns Farms Dam serves as a vital resource for fire protection and agricultural needs in the area. Its construction, maintenance, and regulatory oversight ensure the safety and functionality of the dam, contributing to the overall water management efforts in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam presents an interesting case study in private ownership and state regulation of critical infrastructure in Iowa.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
82 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Kerns Farms Dam