Bechert Dam - Lower Site Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bechert Dam - Lower Site, located in Keokuk, Iowa, is a state-owned Earth dam completed in 1999 with a primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a storage capacity of 451 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 209 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-South Skunk River, the dam serves as a habitat for various aquatic species and supports the conservation efforts in the area.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Bechert Dam - Lower Site is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The dam is not currently rated for its condition and has not undergone recent inspections. It is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and advocate for the maintenance and safety of this dam to ensure its continued functionality and environmental impact for the surrounding area.

With its strategic location and purpose as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, Bechert Dam - Lower Site plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and water management efforts. As a state-regulated structure, it is subject to regular inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the Iowa DNR. Its presence contributes to the conservation of natural resources and provides opportunities for research and education in the field of water resources and climate change adaptation.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

TR- SOUTH SKUNK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

95.4

Drainage Area

0.98

Nid Storage

451

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

7
       
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.