Huff Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Huff Dam, located in Van Buren County, Iowa, is a privately-owned earth dam completed in 2003 by NRCS.


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Summary

This dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 32 feet and a length of 320 feet, Huff Dam has a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.9 acres. It is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safe operation.

The dam is situated on TR-Bear Creek and is classified as having a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the spillway is uncontrolled, the dam has not experienced any major modifications since its completion. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped with emergency action plans to manage any potential risks. The surrounding area is at a moderate risk level, but with proper risk management measures in place, the dam continues to provide valuable water resources for the local community.

Overall, Huff Dam is a vital water resource infrastructure in Iowa, contributing to water storage, fire protection, and recreational opportunities. With its strategic location and efficient design, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area while also ensuring public safety. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can appreciate the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Huff Dam to sustainably manage water supplies in a changing climate.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR- BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.9

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

63

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.