Petchulat Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dunham Dam Miller Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Petchulat Dam, located in Johnson County, Iowa, is a private earth dam designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1993 for fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 36 feet and a length of 240 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.9 acres. Situated on the TR-Iowa River in Coralville Reservoir, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Petchulat Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is primarily constructed on soil foundations. While it has not undergone recent inspections or maintenance, the dam remains in operation for its intended purposes. The surrounding area, which includes the city of Coralville Reservoir, benefits from the water resource provided by the dam for fire protection and agricultural needs.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts would find Petchulat Dam a fascinating example of private dam infrastructure in Iowa, contributing to local water management and ecosystem support. The dam's design by USDA NRCS, state regulation by Iowa DNR, and its critical role in fire protection and stock watering highlight the interconnectedness of water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship. With its location on the TR-Iowa River and its modest storage capacity, Petchulat Dam represents a valuable asset for the community and a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management practices.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR- IOWA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.13 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clear Creek Near Oxford
|
11cfs |
Iowa River At Marengo
|
818cfs |
Cedar River At Cedar Rapids
|
2160cfs |
Clear Creek Near Coralville
|
19cfs |
Iowa River Below Coralville Dam Nr Coralville
|
662cfs |
Old Mans Creek Near Iowa City
|
24cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Middle Amana Park
|
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Kent Park Family Campground
|
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F. W. Kent County Park
|
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Morgan Creek County Park
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Petchulat Dam