North Woods Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

North Woods Lake Dam, located in Davis City, Iowa, is a key water supply structure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Constructed in 1993 by VEENSTRA & KIMM, this earth dam stands at a height of 57 feet and spans 745 feet in length, holding a capacity of 990 acre-feet with a normal storage of 764 acre-feet. Situated on TR- POT HOLE CREEK in Decatur County, this dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for the region.

Maintained and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, North Woods Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment. It is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has undergone inspections every 5 years, with the most recent assessment taking place in July 2020. The dam's risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, indicating a potential for environmental impact and the need for ongoing risk management measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, North Woods Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and water management. Its location, design, and regulatory oversight provide insights into the complexities of maintaining water supply systems in the face of changing environmental conditions. As a critical piece of infrastructure in the region, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the context of climate change.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

745

Dam Height

57

River Or Stream

TR- POT HOLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45.2

Drainage Area

0.61

Nid Storage

990

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

57
       
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.