Lindle Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lindle Dam, located in Columbus Junction, Iowa, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet. Situated on TR- Chicken Creek, Lindle Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Lindle Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and its emergency action plan (EAP) status is unclear. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is surrounded by a surface area of 2 acres, serving a drainage area of 0.21 square miles. With no outlet gates or associated structures, Lindle Dam poses minimal risk in terms of potential inundation and emergency response. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the management and maintenance of dams like Lindle is crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure.

As water resources continue to face challenges from climate change and increasing demand, Lindle Dam serves as a vital asset for the local community in providing essential services for fire protection, livestock, and recreational fishing. With its strategic location and relatively modest scale, Lindle Dam exemplifies the importance of proactive monitoring and risk management to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the long-term resilience of our water systems. By staying informed and engaged in the stewardship of structures like Lindle Dam, we can contribute to a more sustainable and secure water future for generations to come.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR- CHICKEN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

31

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.