Good Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Good Dam in Davis County, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1995 by the NRCS.


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Summary

Situated along the North Fork North Fabius Creek, it serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a dam height of 26 feet and a length of 450 feet, it has a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

The dam's primary purpose of fire protection and water storage contributes to the conservation and management of water resources in the area. Its location in a rural setting underscores its importance for agricultural activities and wildlife habitat. Although the dam is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it is subject to moderate risk (3) according to a risk assessment. The presence of an uncontrolled spillway emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to prevent potential hazards and ensure the dam's integrity.

Overall, Good Dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem by providing water for multiple uses and serving as a reliable source of water during emergencies. Its construction and management highlight the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure for safeguarding communities and the environment against water-related risks. As a privately owned structure under state jurisdiction, Good Dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts needed to ensure the safety and efficiency of water resource systems in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK NORTH FABIUS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

85

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.
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Area Campgrounds