Big Creek Barrier Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

The Big Creek Barrier Dam, also known as the Big Creek Ponding Area, is a gravity dam located in Polk City, Iowa.


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Summary

Completed in 1974 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam stands at a height of 84 feet and has a structural height of 83 feet. With a capacity to store 4,200 acre-feet of water, the dam primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction for the nearby Big Creek and Saylorville Lake.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Big Creek Barrier Dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments. The dam is equipped with flap and slide gates for controlled water release. In the case of severe weather events or excess water inflow, the dam may release water to manage water levels and relieve pressure to maintain its structural integrity. The USACE continuously monitors the dam's condition, prioritizes risk-reducing activities, and collaborates with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans and evacuation strategies.

Overall, the Big Creek Barrier Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Through proactive risk management measures, regular maintenance, and community engagement, the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures the safety and functionality of the dam to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding incidents.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

4550

Dam Height

84

River Or Stream

BIG CREEK; SAYLORVILLE LAKE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

85

Hydraulic Height

80

Drainage Area

16

Nid Storage

4200

Structural Height

83

Outlet Gates

Flap - 1, Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

84
       
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.