Justice Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Justice Dam, located in Davis City, Iowa, was completed in 1995 and is primarily used for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Owned by a private entity but regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at 31 feet high and stretches 255 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its current condition.

Designed by the USDA NRCS, Justice Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, particularly for the TR- West Long Creek. With a drainage area of 0.07 square miles, the dam serves as an essential structure for flood control and water storage. While it currently does not have any associated structures or outlet gates, its uncontrolled spillway type ensures that excess water can safely flow out when needed.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Justice Dam offers a fascinating example of how private ownership and state regulation intersect to manage water infrastructure effectively. As climate change continues to impact water resources, dams like Justice Dam play a vital role in ensuring water security for communities while also being mindful of environmental and safety considerations. By understanding the design, purpose, and risk profile of dams like Justice Dam, enthusiasts can appreciate the complex interplay between human infrastructure and natural systems in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

255

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR- WEST LONG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.