Hammes Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hammes Dam, located in Fairfield, Iowa, is a privately-owned structure designed by NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 2000, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 297 feet in length, created primarily for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. With a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet, the dam sits on TR- HUPP CREEK, serving as a vital water resource in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Hammes Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 1 foot, indicating a risk management measure may be needed to address potential issues. With a drainage area of 0.15 square miles, the dam's surface area covers 4.3 acres, making it a crucial component of the local water management system.
While Hammes Dam may not be a high-risk structure, its role in fire protection and water storage cannot be understated. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of dams like Hammes is essential for ensuring the sustainable management of precious water sources in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
297 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR- HUPP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.15 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
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.
Hammes Dam