Paulson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hon Dam Whispering Pines Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Paulson Dam, located in Muscatine, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1982 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 43 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Paulson Dam poses a moderate risk due to its location on the TR- E. BR. MAD CREEK and its moderate storage capacity. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, it is essential for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the area. The dam does not have any associated structures or outlet gates, and its spillway type is uncontrolled, indicating a need for careful management of water levels during periods of heavy rainfall.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Paulson Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human infrastructure with natural ecosystems. As a vital resource for fire protection and agricultural activities, the dam serves as a case study in balancing the benefits of water storage with the potential risks associated with dam failure. With its moderate risk assessment and state-regulated status, Paulson Dam exemplifies the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure the sustainability of water resources in Iowa.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR- E. BR. MAD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.28 |
Nid Storage |
43 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar River Near Conesville
|
2130cfs |
Duck Creek At 110th Ave At Davenport
|
10cfs |
Edwards River Near New Boston
|
37cfs |
Hoover Crk At Hoover Nat.Hist.Site West Branch
|
2cfs |
Iowa River At Wapello
|
3400cfs |
Iowa River Near Lone Tree
|
1000cfs |
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.
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