Murchland Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Langenfeld - Heiden Dam Creti Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Murchland Dam, located in Denison, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans a length of 600 feet, with a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet. Situated on Walnut Creek, the dam is owned and regulated by the local government with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is deemed to have a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of proper risk management measures.
The dam's construction on soil foundation has made it a vital resource for the surrounding community, providing essential water storage for various needs. With a surface area of 5.1 acres and a drainage area of 0.55 square miles, Murchland Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources and ensuring a sustainable environment for the local wildlife. Although the dam has not been rated for its condition, regular inspections and enforcement by state agencies help in ensuring its safety and functionality for the long term.
As a part of the Rock Island District, Murchland Dam is a significant feature in the region's water infrastructure, contributing to water conservation efforts and flood control measures. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk assessment, the dam continues to serve its primary purposes effectively. With proper monitoring and maintenance, Murchland Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WALNUT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.55 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Soldier River At Pisgah
|
112cfs |
Boyer River At Logan
|
417cfs |
Little Sioux River Near Turin
|
1040cfs |
Monona-Harrison Ditch Near Turin
|
158cfs |
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.
Murchland Dam