Elk Creek Game Management Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Elk Creek Game Management Dam 1, located in Worth County, Iowa, is a state-managed earth dam completed in 1961 for recreational purposes along the Elk Creek river.


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Summary

With a height of 17 feet and a length of 700 feet, the dam provides storage of 2097 acre-feet of water for various recreational activities. It has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, as per the most recent assessment in June 2019.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Elk Creek Game Management Dam 1 is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, serving as a vital resource for the local community. The dam's construction was overseen by the Iowa Conservation Commission, ensuring its structural integrity and regulatory compliance. The surrounding area offers a surface area of 176 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy, while also providing essential habitat for wildlife in the region.

Despite its moderate risk assessment, Elk Creek Game Management Dam 1 remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking recreational opportunities in the serene surroundings of Kensett, Iowa. With regular inspections and enforcement measures in place, the dam continues to play a key role in water management and conservation efforts within the St. Paul District of Iowa, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure for both human and ecological well-being.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

ELK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

176

Drainage Area

17.3

Nid Storage

2097

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.