Freese Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Freese Dam, located in Wayne County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 370 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Situated along TR- Caleb Creek, the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, covering a surface area of 3.9 acres and draining a 0.22 square mile watershed.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Freese Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there are currently no emergency action plans in place for this dam. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation pose unique challenges that require ongoing monitoring and management to mitigate potential risks and protect the local ecosystem.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and regulating dams like Freese Dam becomes increasingly crucial. By understanding the dam's design, purpose, and risk profile, water resource and climate enthusiasts can advocate for sustainable management practices that prioritize safety, conservation, and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR- CALEB CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.9

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

52

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.