Erickson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Erickson Dam, located in Barney, Iowa, serves as a crucial infrastructure for grade stabilization and water supply purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 2006 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 400 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet, it primarily aids in controlling water flow and maintaining water levels in the surrounding area.

Situated along a tributary to Clanton Creek, Erickson Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated. Emergency action plans and risk assessment measures are yet to be fully established, raising concerns about potential safety implications in case of unforeseen events.

As an essential component of the local water management system, Erickson Dam warrants continued monitoring and proactive maintenance to uphold its functionality and safety standards. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate balance between water supply management, grade stabilization efforts, and the environmental impact of dams like Erickson in sustaining the ecological equilibrium of the region.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Trib to Clanton Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.24

Nid Storage

89

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.