Wise Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Wise Dam, located in Mitchell Park, Iowa, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1959 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a length of 548 feet, offering a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations.

The dam controls Camp Creek and has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its risk management measures and emergency action plans are under review. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type of the Wise Dam ensures proper management of excess water, protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding. With its location in Polk County, Iowa, Wise Dam serves as a vital water resource for the community, showcasing the importance of proper dam maintenance and risk assessment for climate and water resource enthusiasts.

Overall, Wise Dam plays a crucial role in providing fire protection and water storage for the local area. Its construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflects a commitment to sustainable water management practices. With a focus on safety and compliance, the dam's inspection and regulation by state authorities demonstrate a dedication to protecting both the environment and the surrounding community. As a key infrastructure for water resource enthusiasts, Wise Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam operation and maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

548

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-CAMP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.