Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 50-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 50-1 in Talmage, Iowa, is a vital resource managed by the local government with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam structure, completed in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond usage, and flood risk reduction. With a height of 33 feet and a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet, the dam covers a drainage area of 0.33 square miles and has a surface area of 14.3 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 50-1 has a moderate risk assessment rating due to its condition being not rated. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has not been modified since its construction. While there is no current inspection data available, the structure is designed to meet state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the area and contributes to the overall ecological health and flood protection of the region.
Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate mitigation efforts should take note of Three Mile Creek Watershed Site 50-1 as a prime example of local government-led infrastructure for water conservation and disaster preparedness. With its strategic location in Union County and its association with the Rock Island District, this dam structure serves as a key component in safeguarding the surrounding community against potential flooding events while also providing essential water resources for agricultural and environmental purposes. Its historical significance and ongoing management by the USDA NRCS make it a noteworthy site for those passionate about sustainable water resource management practices.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-THREE MILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
107 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
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 |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
Middle River Near Indianola
|
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 50-1
Cedar County Park
Talmage Hill Wildlife Area
Talmage Hill Park