Strathman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Mt.


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Summary

Sterling, Iowa, the Strathman Dam is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS. Completed in 1999, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 255 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 37 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1 acre, with a drainage area of 0.18 square miles. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in a not rated condition.

The Strathman Dam, situated on the TR-FOX RIVER, falls under the jurisdiction of the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Although not regulated or inspected by the state, this dam plays a crucial role in providing essential water resources for the local community. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols are currently not fully detailed.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Strathman Dam a fascinating example of private infrastructure contributing to local water management and conservation efforts in Davis County, Iowa. Its construction and purpose showcase the importance of small-scale dams in providing vital services such as fire protection and stock support, while also highlighting the need for effective risk management and emergency response measures in the face of potential hazards.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

255

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR- FOX RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

37

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.