Iowa Noname74 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Iowa Noname74 is a recreational earth dam located in Louisa, Iowa, near the city of Elrick.


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Summary

Built in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 273 feet, providing a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet. With a surface area of 40 acres and a drainage area of 0.11 square miles, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure public safety.

The primary purpose of Iowa Noname74 is recreation, offering opportunities for outdoor activities in the surrounding area. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the dam is subject to moderate risk assessment due to its age and condition. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and is located along the TR-OTTER CREEK river or stream, under the jurisdiction of the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, with oversight from local government agencies.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of Iowa Noname74 in providing recreational opportunities while also serving as a critical structure for flood control and water management in the region. With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, this dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and federal partners to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in Iowa.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

273

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-OTTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

59

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.