Pottorff Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Pottorff Dam, located in Corning, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1999, this earth dam has a height of 26 feet and a length of 326 feet, providing a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet. Situated on the Tr- East Nodaway River, this low hazard dam has a surface area of 1.6 acres and drains a 0.13 square mile area.

Managed by a private owner, Pottorff Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam has a spillway width of 1 foot and a moderate risk level (3) according to the risk assessment. The dam has not been rated for its condition, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) currently in place.

Overall, Pottorff Dam presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the importance of dam infrastructure for various purposes in a rural setting. With its unique design and regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a critical asset for the local community while also highlighting the need for proper maintenance and risk management strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

326

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Tr- East Nodaway River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.6

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

23

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.