Ralston Subwatershed Site M-2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in the beautiful state of Iowa, the Ralston Subwatershed Site M-2 is a crucial water resource managed by the local government for fire protection, stock maintenance, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam, completed in 1969, stands at a height of 27 feet and spans a length of 885 feet, providing a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet to serve the surrounding area. Situated in Cherokee County, the site plays a key role in flood risk reduction efforts, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Managed by the USDA NRCS, the Ralston Subwatershed Site M-2 is regulated by the Iowa DNR, ensuring state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms are in place for its operation and maintenance. With a drainage area of 0.78 square miles and a surface area of 4 acres, this site on the TR-Little Sioux River contributes to the overall water management strategy in the region. Despite being not rated in terms of condition assessment, the dam remains a critical infrastructure for water resource management in the area.
Overall, the Ralston Subwatershed Site M-2 serves as a vital component of the water resource infrastructure in Iowa, providing essential services for fire protection, stock maintenance, and flood risk reduction. With a history dating back to 1969, this Earth-type dam continues to play a significant role in the local water management efforts, supported by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and appreciating the importance of such sites is crucial for ensuring sustainable and effective water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
885 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.78 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
Floyd River At James
|
187cfs |
West Fork Ditch At Hornick
|
80cfs |
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
Floyd River At Alton
|
36cfs |
Perry Creek Near Milnerville
|
25cfs |
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.
Ralston Subwatershed Site M-2