Renaud Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Renaud Dam, located in Colfax, Iowa, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to serve multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet. Situated on the TR- Skunk River, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is regularly inspected and enforced for safety compliance.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Renaud Dam is considered to be in fair condition although it has not been formally rated. The dam does not have an emergency action plan (EAP) in place but meets regulatory guidelines for operation. Despite its small size and limited surface area, Renaud Dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem by providing water for stock, fire protection, and recreational fishing activities.

While not a major structure, Renaud Dam highlights the importance of smaller dams in managing water resources and contributing to environmental sustainability. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Renaud Dam will play an increasingly crucial role in maintaining water security for both human and ecological needs.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR- SKUNK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.64

Nid Storage

44

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.