Hardin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Hardin Dam, located in Lee County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 2000, the earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 430 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, the dam serves the TR- LICK CREEK, offering low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite being privately owned, Hardin Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement. The dam's structure primarily consists of earth and stone with a soil foundation, and features an uncontrolled spillway. Although the dam's condition is not currently rated, its risk management measures are in place to mitigate potential issues and ensure safety for surrounding areas.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hardin Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its modest storage capacity and unique purpose, the dam showcases the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure to protect against potential hazards and maintain water resources for various uses. The collaborative efforts between the private owner and state regulatory agencies exemplify the shared responsibility in safeguarding water systems and infrastructure for the benefit of the community.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR- LICK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.