Bazal Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bazal Dam, located in Marengo, Iowa, was completed in 1996 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 425 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 53 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Bazal Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. The dam is situated on the TR-Hog Run river/stream and covers a surface area of 5.5 acres, with a drainage area of 0.2 square miles. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has not experienced any major incidents, making it a reliable structure for water storage and management in the region.

Water and climate enthusiasts will find Bazal Dam an intriguing site for its design and purpose. As a key element in the local water infrastructure, the dam provides essential services while maintaining a moderate risk level. Its location in Tama County, Iowa, adds to the significance of this structure in safeguarding the environment and supporting the community's water needs.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR- HOG RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.