Behrendt Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Behrendt Dam, located in Monona, Iowa, is a private earth dam designed by USDA NRCS for grade stabilization on a tributary to South Willow Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 2014, the dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 513 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is to stabilize grades in the area, serving as a crucial structure for managing water resources in the region.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Behrendt Dam plays a vital role in water management and flood control in the area. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 37 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 3.9 acres and serving a drainage area of 0.36 square miles. Managed by a private entity, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Behrendt Dam offers a fascinating example of how engineering interventions like dams can contribute to sustainable water management practices. As a modern structure designed for grade stabilization, the dam showcases the importance of innovative solutions in mitigating the impact of climate change on water resources. With its strategic location and design features, Behrendt Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water conservation, flood protection, and ecological sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

2014

Dam Length

513

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

Trib to South Willow Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.9

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

0.36

Nid Storage

63

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.