Badger Creek Watershed Site M-1-A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Badger Creek Watershed Site M-1-A, also known as Badger Creek Lake Dam, is a state-owned structure located in North River, Iowa.


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Summary

Constructed in 1980 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 2,480 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 46 feet and spans 1,720 feet across Badger Creek, holding a drainage area of 18.44 square miles.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2020, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the risk management measures in place. Although the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, highlighting the importance of emergency preparedness and regular inspections.

Located in Madison County, Iowa, the Badger Creek Watershed Site M-1-A presents an intriguing case study for water resource professionals and climate enthusiasts. As a key feature in the Kansas City District, this dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing risk management efforts, this site offers valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

1720

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

BADGER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

276

Drainage Area

18.44

Nid Storage

10950

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

46
       
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.