Turkey Cr Watershed Site 53-6 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Turkey Cr Watershed Site 53-6 in Iowa is a vital water resource managed by the local government with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
This site, located in Cass County, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond management, and flood risk reduction. Constructed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, the earth dam stands at 37 feet high and spans 540 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.36 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, this dam plays a crucial role in water management within the Turkey Creek watershed. The structure is currently in good condition, with a moderate risk rating of 3. Regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement by state authorities ensure the safety and effectiveness of the dam in mitigating flood risks and providing essential water resources for the surrounding community. The site's location near Lake Anita and the Turkey Creek stream underscores its importance in maintaining ecological balance and supporting local wildlife habitats.
As a part of the larger water infrastructure managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Turkey Cr Watershed Site 53-6 exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and community safety. With its strategic design, regulatory oversight, and multi-purpose functionality, this dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the intricate balance of engineering, environmental stewardship, and regulatory compliance that converge at this critical watershed site in Iowa.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.36 |
Nid Storage |
79 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Turkey Cr Watershed Site 53-6