Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 36 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 36 is a crucial water resource in Iowa, owned and regulated by the local government and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has been serving multiple purposes since its completion in 1976, including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management, as well as flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.14 square miles, this dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the Union County region.
Situated in Talmage, Iowa, along the TR-Three Mile Creek, this dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not been assessed for emergency action plan preparedness or risk management measures. With a surface area of 3.8 acres and a normal storage capacity of 39 acre-feet, the dam provides essential water management functions for the local community. Although its spillway is uncontrolled, the dam has not experienced any significant modifications or incidents since its construction.
Overall, Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 36 is a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Iowa, serving as a key infrastructure for flood risk reduction and water storage. Managed by local government authorities and the Iowa DNR, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality and quantity in the Union County region. With its strategic location and multi-purpose design, this earth dam continues to contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in the area.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR-THREE MILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.14 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Thompson River At Davis City
|
22cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
East Fork 102 River At Bedford
|
1cfs |
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.
Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 36
Talmage Hill Wildlife Area
Talmage Hill Park
Green Valley State Park
Thayer Lake Park
Arispe City Park