Mule Creek Watershed Sta 38+20 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Mills County, Iowa, the Mule Creek Watershed Sta 38+20 is a vital water resource managed by the local government for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1955, stands at a height of 45 feet and spans 502 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet. The dam serves as a critical component for flood risk reduction in the area, contributing to the overall water management efforts in the region.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Mule Creek Watershed Sta 38+20 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's hazard potential is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam's risk management measures are being continuously monitored to mitigate any potential threats to the surrounding communities and ecosystems. With its strategic location along the TR-Mule Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality, flood control, and environmental protection in the region.

As part of the Omaha District, the Mule Creek Watershed Sta 38+20 offers valuable insights into water resource management, climate resilience, and infrastructure development. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its operational efficiency and emergency preparedness are key priorities for the local authorities. With its controlled spillway and soil foundation, the dam serves as a testament to sustainable water management practices and the importance of collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies in safeguarding our precious water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

502

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

TR-MULE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

41

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

45
       
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.