Carl Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Walton Dam Buch Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Carl Dam, located in Marengo, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by NRCS for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1999, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and spans 206 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 29 acre-feet. Situated on Tr- Buckeye Creek, the dam serves as a crucial water resource in Benton County, Iowa, regulating water flow for various uses.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Carl Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to have a moderate risk level. Despite its condition being currently unrated, the dam has not undergone any recent inspections or evaluations. With a spillway width of 1 foot and uncontrolled spillway type, the dam ensures controlled water discharge during heavy rainfall events, minimizing the risk of flooding and protecting downstream areas. Water and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Carl Dam in water management and conservation efforts in the region.
Abby Finkenauer, the Democratic representative for the area, overlooks Carl Dam, ensuring its compliance with state regulations and safety standards. The dam's location in the Detroit District further emphasizes its significance in the local water infrastructure, providing essential services for fire protection and agricultural needs. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of structures like Carl Dam become increasingly crucial in safeguarding the environment and community wellbeing.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
206 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
Tr- Buckeye Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Iowa River Near Belle Plaine
|
966cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
Walnut Creek Near Hartwick
|
13cfs |
Big Bear Creek At Ladora
|
50cfs |
Iowa River At Marengo
|
818cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Carl Dam