Holden Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bott Dam Iowa Noname22
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Holden Dam, located in Riverside, Iowa, is a private dam built in 2000 for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 48 feet with a length of 590 feet, creating a storage capacity of 562 acre-feet and a surface area of 27.4 acres. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspection, maintenance, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Holden Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, indicating potential risks that need to be managed. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam meets state permitting and inspection requirements. The dam's primary purpose and design, along with its location on TR-Devils Run, make it a crucial component for water resource management and climate resilience in the area. With its controlled spillway and soil foundation, the dam serves as a vital structure for water storage and management in Iowa.
Holden Dam's association with Warner Engineering and the Detroit District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlights its importance in the local ecosystem and water infrastructure. With a focus on emergency preparedness and risk management, the dam plays a key role in ensuring water availability and flood protection in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Holden Dam represents a fascinating intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and water management practices that contribute to sustainable development and resilience in Iowa's water systems.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
590 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
TR- DEVILS RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
562 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
48 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Bear Creek At Ladora
|
50cfs |
Iowa River At Marengo
|
818cfs |
Iowa River Near Belle Plaine
|
966cfs |
Walnut Creek Near Hartwick
|
13cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
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.
Holden Dam