Iowa Noname53 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Iowa Noname53 is a local government-owned dam located in Union, Iowa, specifically in the city of Talmage.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and stretches 535 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond, with additional recreational use.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Iowa Noname53 is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating. It is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and is inspected regularly for safety and compliance. Although the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Situated on TR-Wolf Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the area. With its strategic location and design, Iowa Noname53 serves as an essential infrastructure for the community while also providing opportunities for recreational activities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam is a noteworthy example of sustainable infrastructure that balances multiple purposes effectively.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

535

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-WOLF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.1

Drainage Area

0.32

Nid Storage

62

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.