Doherty Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lundell Dam Spring Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Doherty Dam, located in Cherokee, Iowa, is a private earth dam constructed in 1998 by the NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 37 feet and a length of 353 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and normal storage of 22 acre-feet. Situated on the TR- Little Sioux River, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is inspected and enforced by state authorities. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the condition of Doherty Dam is currently not rated.
This dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for fire protection and sustaining aquatic life in the area. The surrounding community benefits from the dam's storage capacity and its ability to regulate water flow in the Little Sioux River. With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, Doherty Dam ensures the safety and reliability of its functions for the local ecosystem and residents. The dam's risk management measures are in place to address any potential hazards and maintain the integrity of the structure.
As a significant infrastructure project in the region, Doherty Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. Its construction and maintenance reflect a commitment to sustainable water use practices and environmental stewardship. With its design by the NRCS and oversight by state agencies, the dam serves as a model for responsible water infrastructure development in the face of changing climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Doherty Dam represents a case study in the intersection of human engineering with natural ecosystems for the benefit of both.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
353 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TR- LITTLE SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.32 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Sioux River At Linn Grove
|
257cfs |
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
Floyd River At Alton
|
36cfs |
Ocheyedan River Near Spencer
|
59cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Floyd River At James
|
187cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Doherty Dam