Dane Ridge Watershed Site C-7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dane Ridge Watershed Site C-7 is a crucial water resource located in Crawford, Iowa, near the city of Dunlap.


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Summary

Managed by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam was completed in 1977 for purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond creation, as well as flood risk reduction. With a height of 38 feet and a length of 465 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 262 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 3.57 square miles, primarily affecting the TR-Boyer River.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Dane Ridge Watershed Site C-7 remains under the regulatory oversight of the Iowa DNR, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam’s structure, primarily composed of soil, has not been rated for its condition, and there is limited information on emergency action plans or risk management measures. The surrounding area covers 15 acres, providing a vital water source for the community and supporting various ecological functions.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Dane Ridge Watershed Site C-7 offers a fascinating case study for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental conservation, and community resilience. With its historical significance dating back to the late 20th century, this dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources, mitigating flood risks, and supporting local ecosystems. Further research and monitoring of this site could provide valuable insights into sustainable water management practices and the potential impacts of climate change on dam safety and performance.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

465

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-BOYER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

3.57

Nid Storage

262

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.