Turkey Cr Watershed Site 42 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Turkey Cr Watershed Site 42, located in Cass County, Iowa, is a crucial water resource managed by the local government for fire protection, stock, and small fish ponds, as well as flood risk reduction.
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Summary
The dam, constructed in 1974 by the USDA NRCS, is an earth structure with a height of 31 feet and a length of 575 feet, providing a storage capacity of 147 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 7.8 acres. The watershed site is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment, the condition of the dam at Turkey Cr Watershed Site 42 is currently not rated. However, the site has not experienced any significant modifications since its construction and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with no outlet gates or locks, and has a drainage area of 0.41 square miles. With a risk management strategy yet to be defined, the site remains a critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region, under the jurisdiction of the Iowa DNR and the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts monitoring Turkey Cr Watershed Site 42 can appreciate its role in maintaining water supply, mitigating flood risks, and supporting local ecosystems. As part of a network of dams in the area, this site contributes to the overall management of water resources in Iowa. While the dam's condition assessment is pending and there are identified areas for improvement, its strategic location in the Turkey Creek watershed highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure development for long-term water security and environmental protection. With ongoing regulatory oversight and potential enhancements in risk management measures, this site serves as a focal point for collaboration between government agencies, stakeholders, and the community to ensure the resilience of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.41 |
Nid Storage |
147 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Turkey Cr Watershed Site 42