Dennis Koenig Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dennis Koenig Dam, located in Volney, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 2013.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam serves multiple purposes including grade stabilization, fish and wildlife pond creation, and recreation. With a height of 28 feet and a length of 427 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.6 acres.

Situated on a tributary to the Yellow River, Dennis Koenig Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and efficacy. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 12 feet, and it has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, it meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped with emergency action preparedness measures.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location and design of Dennis Koenig Dam, which not only enhances the local ecosystem and recreational opportunities but also contributes to grade stabilization and flood control efforts. Its collaborative ownership and state oversight ensure its continued functionality and safety, making it a valuable asset in water resource management in Winneshiek County, Iowa.

Year Completed

2013

Dam Length

427

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Trib to Yellow River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.6

Drainage Area

0.86

Nid Storage

115

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.