Cutler Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cutler Dam, located in Mason City, Iowa, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Built in 1999 by the NRCS, this private dam stands at a height of 7 feet and stretches 650 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet, it serves as a critical habitat for various species in the area.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Cutler Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. Although not currently rated, the dam's overall condition and emergency action plan readiness are essential factors for its continued operation and risk mitigation efforts.

With a primary purpose of providing a safe environment for fish and wildlife, Cutler Dam plays a significant role in water resource management in the area. Its location on the TTR- Willow Creek tributary and its moderate risk level highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard the surrounding ecosystem and communities downstream.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

TTR- WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

190

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.