Parmer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Parmer Dam, located in Clarke, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1995 by the USDA NRCS, this private dam stands at 28 feet tall and spans 360 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet. The dam is designed to regulate the flow of the TR- South Otter Creek, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Parmer Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement. The dam's primary purpose is to provide essential water resources for the surrounding area, including Red Rock Reservoir, while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors. With a drainage area of 0.07 square miles and a surface area of 2 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and protecting the ecosystem.

As a key feature in the Kansas City District, Parmer Dam is a vital component of the local water infrastructure. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, it has been deemed to meet guidelines for emergency action planning. With its strategic location and functional design, Parmer Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR- SOUTH OTTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.