Gates Park Control Structure, located in Black Hawk County, Iowa, along the Virden Creek, serves as a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure managed by the local government.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches to a length of 970 feet, with a storage capacity of 195 acre-feet. Despite its significant hazard potential, the structure has been assessed as satisfactory and meets regulatory requirements for inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
The design and construction of Gates Park Control Structure were overseen by DAEN NCR, ensuring its effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a spillway type classified as uncontrolled. Even though the structure has not been modified in recent years, regular inspections and a five-year inspection frequency help maintain its operational readiness and ensure its safety for the surrounding community. With a moderate risk assessment rating and no emergency action plan in place, the structure continues to play a crucial role in managing floodwaters and protecting the local area from potential inundation events.
As an essential component of the flood control infrastructure along the Virden Creek, Gates Park Control Structure exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local and state agencies to safeguard against water-related hazards. With its strategic location and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management practices in Iowa. As climate change continues to impact water resources and extreme weather events, structures like Gates Park Control are essential for enhancing resilience and protecting communities from the increasing threat of floods.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
970 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
VIRDEN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
13.2 |
Nid Storage |
195 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Cedar River At Waterloo
|
2090cfs |
Cedar River At Cedar Falls
|
1880cfs |
Black Hawk Creek At Hudson
|
103cfs |
Cedar River At Janesville
|
711cfs |
West Fork Cedar River At Finchford
|
502cfs |
Beaver Creek At New Hartford
|
123cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
George Wyth State Park
|
||
Deerwood City Park
|
||
Big Woods Lake
|
||
Black Hawk County Park
|