Big Creek Diversion Dam, also known as Big Creek Lake in Polk City, Iowa, is a Federal-owned gravity dam completed in 1970 by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Wind
Humidity
The primary purpose of this structure is flood risk reduction along the Big Creek river. With a height of 80 feet and a volume of 920,000 cubic yards, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 7,600 acre-feet and can discharge up to 355 cubic feet per second through its uncontrolled spillway. The dam's hazard potential is rated as high, but an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place to manage any potential risks.
The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages the dam-related flood risks by regularly monitoring its condition, prioritizing necessary maintenance activities, and engaging with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness. The agency works to ensure the dam's structural integrity and water management capabilities are maintained, especially during severe weather events that could lead to increased water flow. The EAP is regularly updated, and emergency contacts and inundation maps are prepared to guide response efforts in case of an emergency. More detailed information specific to this dam's risk management measures will be added in the future.
Overall, the Big Creek Diversion Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks along the Big Creek river in Iowa. With its high hazard potential, the US Army Corps of Engineers implements proactive measures to ensure the dam's functionality and readiness to respond to any potential emergencies. By working closely with local stakeholders and continuously monitoring the dam's condition, the agency aims to minimize the impact of severe weather events and maintain the safety and integrity of the structure for the surrounding community and environment.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
1750 |
Dam Height |
80 |
River Or Stream |
BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
885 |
Hydraulic Height |
75 |
Drainage Area |
76 |
Nid Storage |
27500 |
Structural Height |
80 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
80 |
Beaver Creek Near Grimes
|
183cfs |
Des Moines River Near Saylorville
|
855cfs |
Fourmile Creek Near Ankeny
|
9cfs |
Des Moines River At 2nd Avenue
|
418cfs |
Walnut Creek At Des Moines
|
10cfs |
Raccoon River At Fleur Drive
|
1200cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Acorn Valley Campground
|
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Cherry Glen Campground
|
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Iowa 4-H Center
|