Creston Flood Prevention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sharp Dam Crestmor Golf Club Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The Creston Flood Prevention Dam, located in Creston, Iowa, was completed in 1975 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Hurley Creek.
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Summary
The dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, is owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa DNR. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 830 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 556 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 16.1 acres.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 3 feet, and it has been assessed to have a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition. The dam is inspected every two years, with the last assessment taking place in July 2019. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3 out of 5, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and efficacy of the structure in preventing flooding in the area.
Overall, the Creston Flood Prevention Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in Union County, Iowa, by regulating water flow along Hurley Creek. With its earth construction and soil foundation, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood protection and also offers recreational opportunities for the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the ongoing maintenance and monitoring of the dam are essential to ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
830 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
HURLEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.75 |
Nid Storage |
556 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
East Fork 102 River At Bedford
|
1cfs |
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Nodaway River At Clarinda
|
30cfs |
Thompson River At Davis City
|
22cfs |
East Nishnabotna River Near Atlantic
|
143cfs |
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.
Creston Flood Prevention Dam