Garner Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Garner Dam, located in Linn County, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

Constructed in 2000 by the NRCS, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans a length of 281 feet. With a storage capacity of 43 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.3 acres, Garner Dam regulates the flow of the TR-ABBE CREEK, contributing to the conservation and management of water resources in the region.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Garner Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities, ensuring its structural integrity and safety for surrounding communities. With its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, Garner Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and maintaining water quality in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Garner Dam stands as a testament to effective water management and conservation efforts in Iowa. Its presence not only provides essential services like fire protection and stock maintenance but also contributes to the overall health and sustainability of the local ecosystem. With a focus on safety and compliance, Garner Dam exemplifies the importance of responsible dam ownership and operation in ensuring the long-term resilience of water infrastructure in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

281

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR- ABBE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

43

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.