Willow Creek Subwatershed Site M-1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Located in Woodbury County, Iowa, the Willow Creek Subwatershed Site M-1 is a key water resource managed by the local government for multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance.


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Summary

Built in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, serving as a vital component for flood risk reduction in the area. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

The site, situated along the TR-Wolf Creek, covers a drainage area of 0.33 square miles and boasts a surface area of 2.9 acres. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has not been modified over the years and is currently in a not-rated condition assessment status. Its location in Turin, Iowa, makes it a critical infrastructure for water management and conservation efforts in the region, with the USDA NRCS overseeing its design and maintenance. As a part of the local water resource network, the Willow Creek Subwatershed Site M-1 plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding environment and ensuring sustainable water usage for the community.

With a primary focus on environmental protection and water conservation, the Willow Creek Subwatershed Site M-1 serves as a model for efficient dam management and regulatory compliance. Its strategic location, coupled with its diverse purposes, makes it an essential asset for maintaining water quality, controlling floods, and supporting local wildlife habitats. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the responsible management of sites like M-1 becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of the region's water supply and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

564

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

TR-WOLF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.9

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.