Knop Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Knop Dam, located in Battle Creek, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1995, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans 390 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres, Knop Dam serves the community by providing essential water resources for various purposes.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, Knop Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with risk management measures that maintain its integrity and functionality. Situated on the TR-Maple River, Knop Dam contributes to the local ecosystem by providing water resources and habitat for aquatic life.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Knop Dam for its role in water conservation, irrigation, and flood control in the region. With its controlled spillway and soil foundation, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the community, supporting agricultural activities and wildlife preservation. As a part of the Rock Island District, Knop Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and government agencies in managing water resources for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR- MAPLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.