Dorota Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dorota is a privately owned dam located in Iowa County, Wisconsin, along Narveson Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1974 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25.5 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing a water source for livestock or small fish ponds. With a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 1 acre and drains a 0.2 square mile watershed.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Dorota is subject to state regulation and inspection by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The dam's condition was assessed as fair in May 2020, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. In the event of an emergency, the dam has not prepared an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) meeting guidelines, raising moderate risk concerns for the surrounding area.

Overall, Dorota plays a crucial role in providing water resources for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the region. While it has a relatively low hazard potential, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are necessary to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the community. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Dorota's design and purpose intriguing, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

25.5

River Or Stream

NARVESON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

18

Structural Height

25.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.