Lake Morris Erosion Control Site 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Lake Morris Erosion Control Site 1, located in Lucas County, Iowa, was completed in 1972 and is owned and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
This earth dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond. With a dam height of 32 feet and a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet, the site covers a surface area of 5.5 acres and has a drainage area of 0.38 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam at Lake Morris Erosion Control Site 1 has a moderate risk assessment due to its location near the TR-Little Whitebreast Creek. The condition of the dam is not rated, and there is no recent inspection or emergency action plan in place. The site is not managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers and does not have outlet gates or locks. The risk management measures for this site are currently unspecified.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in erosion control and dam management can appreciate the significance of Lake Morris Erosion Control Site 1 in maintaining water quality, preventing soil erosion, and providing recreational opportunities for the local community. The collaboration between local government agencies, the USDA NRCS, and the Iowa DNR in the design, construction, and regulation of this site demonstrates a commitment to sustainable water resource management in the region.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
424 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE WHITEBREAST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.38 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Lake Morris Erosion Control Site 1