Mule Creek Watershed Sta 27+00 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mule Creek Watershed Sta 27+00, located in Mills County, Iowa, is a vital earth dam structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1956.


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Summary

This dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, small fish pond management, and flood risk reduction. With a height of 29 feet and a length of 612 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.3 acres. It is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its functionality and safety.

The Mule Creek Watershed Sta 27+00 dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and reducing flood risks for the surrounding community. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam's condition is currently not rated. While it does not have a formal Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the structure meets state guidelines and has not experienced any significant modifications over the years. As part of the Omaha District, the dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region and is a key component in protecting the local environment and infrastructure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of structures like Mule Creek Watershed Sta 27+00 in safeguarding our natural resources and mitigating potential hazards. By understanding the design, purpose, and regulatory oversight of dams like these, we can appreciate the critical role they play in maintaining water quality, supporting wildlife habitats, and ensuring the resilience of our communities in the face of changing climate conditions. Let us continue to advocate for sustainable water management practices and support initiatives that promote the safety and integrity of our water infrastructure for generations to come.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

612

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-MULE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.3

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.