Little Beaver Subwatershed M-16730 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Little Beaver Subwatershed M-16730 is a vital water resource located in Turin, Woodbury County, Iowa.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management, as well as flood risk reduction. Built in 1957 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 145 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 4.7 acres.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Little Beaver Subwatershed M-16730 plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and water management system. It is positioned on the TR-Wolf Creek river and is designed to withstand potential emergencies with an emergency action plan in place. Despite not being currently rated for condition assessment, this dam continues to provide essential services to the surrounding community while being subject to regular inspections and state regulations.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Little Beaver Subwatershed M-16730 to be an intriguing case study of sustainable water management practices in Iowa. As a part of the local government's efforts to protect the environment and manage flood risks, this dam exemplifies the importance of maintaining and inspecting critical infrastructure for the safety and well-being of the community. With a focus on fire protection, stock management, and flood risk reduction, this dam serves as a valuable asset in the region's water resource management efforts.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-WOLF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.7

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

145

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.