Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 49 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 49 is a critical water resource located in Talmage, Iowa, managed by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
This site serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and flood risk reduction. Completed in 1976, the primary dam is of Earth type, with a height of 37 feet and a storage capacity of 139 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 0.22 square miles, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.
The site has a moderate risk level (3) and falls under the jurisdiction of the Iowa DNR, with state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam, located on TR-Three Mile Creek, has a surface area of 7.9 acres and a normal storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has not experienced any maximum discharge events. The surrounding area, encompassing Union County, Iowa, relies on this structure for various water management needs, making it a crucial component in the local watershed system.
Overall, Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 49 represents a significant investment in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With its strategic location, multiple purposes, and low hazard potential, the dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the community against potential flooding events and ensuring a sustainable water supply for various uses. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water resources, the proper maintenance and regulation of sites like this will be essential for long-term environmental sustainability and resilience.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TR-THREE MILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
139 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
East Fork 102 River At Bedford
|
1cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
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 49
Cedar County Park
Talmage Hill Wildlife Area
Talmage Hill Park
Arispe City Park