Spring Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Spring Lake Dam, located in Cherokee, Iowa, is owned and regulated by the local government and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 8 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes and has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. The dam spans 100 feet in length and is composed of stone core and soil foundation, with a surface area of 15 acres and drainage area of 300 acres.

Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is considered high, signaling the need for appropriate risk management measures. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, and there is no information available regarding its last inspection date or emergency action plan preparation. The dam does not have a spillway and is not associated with any locks or outlet gates.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Spring Lake Dam can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities in the area while also being mindful of the potential risks associated with its operation. As the dam continues to be monitored and regulated by state authorities, its maintenance and safety protocols will be crucial in ensuring the protection of the surrounding environment and community.

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Unnamed trib to Little Sioux River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

300

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

8
       
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.