South Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Lake Dam, located in Linn County, Iowa, was completed in 1993 and serves as a private structure primarily used for fire protection, as well as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a length of 352 feet, with a storage capacity of 47 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Spring Creek, and its purpose is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, South Lake Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, indicating the need for careful monitoring and risk management measures. The dam's condition is currently marked as "Not Rated," suggesting a need for further assessment to ensure its structural integrity. While the dam has not been inspected in recent years, it is subject to state regulation, inspection, permitting, and enforcement to maintain safety standards and prevent potential hazards.

Overall, South Lake Dam presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the importance of private dam structures in providing essential services such as fire protection and water storage. With its location in a rural area and its role in supporting local ecosystems, the dam serves as a valuable resource that requires ongoing attention and maintenance to mitigate risks and safeguard its surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

352

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR- SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.6

Drainage Area

0.09

Nid Storage

47

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.