Farmer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Welcome to Farmer Dam in Henry County, Iowa, a privately owned earth dam completed in 1994 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Nestled along TR-Sugar Creek, this dam stands at 23 feet high and stretches 350 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. With a surface area of 4.4 acres and a drainage area of 0.16 square miles, Farmer Dam serves as a vital resource for the local community.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Farmer Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. While it has a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as moderate risk level 3. Despite not having a condition assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and environmental conservation in the region. With its strategic location, Farmer Dam contributes to the overall water ecosystem and supports various activities for residents and wildlife alike.

As a key feature in the Rock Island District, Farmer Dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. With its historical significance and modern-day utility, this dam symbolizes the intersection of human ingenuity and natural ecosystems. Whether for fire protection, livestock, or recreational fishing, Farmer Dam continues to be a vital asset in the heart of Henry County, Iowa.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR- SUGAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.4

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.