Turkey Cr Watershed Site 53-2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Turkey Creek Watershed Site 53-2 in Cass County, Iowa, is a local government-owned dam designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans 620 feet, with a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond, with additional benefits in flood risk reduction.
Located in Lake Anita, this dam on Turkey Creek serves as a critical infrastructure for water resource management in the region. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition but is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. The dam's primary source agency is Iowa, and it falls under the jurisdiction of the Iowa DNR, ensuring its compliance with state regulations for water management.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Turkey Creek Watershed Site 53-2 presents an intriguing case study in sustainable dam management. With its multiple purposes and regulated status, the dam plays a vital role in maintaining water quality, flood protection, and ecosystem health in the area. As part of the broader efforts to manage water resources effectively, this dam exemplifies the collaboration between local government, federal agencies, and state regulators to safeguard our water infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Turkey Cr Watershed Site 53-2