Sparks Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Sparks Dam, located in Woodbury County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 490 feet, providing fire protection and serving as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres, Sparks Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Sparks Dam is subject to moderate risk, as indicated by its risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting by the Iowa DNR ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's primary purpose and design highlight its importance for both local water supply and ecosystem management, emphasizing the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
As a key feature in the TR-WOLF CREEK watershed, Sparks Dam contributes to the overall water management strategy in Woodbury County, Iowa. With its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, the dam serves as a vital structure for fire protection and stock purposes, showcasing the multifaceted role of dams in balancing water supply needs with environmental conservation. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sparks Dam represents a critical piece of infrastructure that underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WOLF CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.38 |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
West Fork Ditch At Hornick
|
80cfs |
Floyd River At James
|
187cfs |
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
Missouri River At Sioux City
|
14400cfs |
Omaha Cr At Homer
|
45cfs |
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.
Sparks Dam