The North Branch Ralston Creek Dam, located in Johnson County, Iowa, was completed in 1983 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
Wind
Humidity
Owned by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and has a length of 590 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1,016 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2020.
With a high hazard potential, the North Branch Ralston Creek Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for managing water resources in the area. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and is designed to mitigate flooding events to protect downstream communities. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management to ensure its effectiveness in flood control.
As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, the North Branch Ralston Creek Dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the local community from potential hazards. With regular inspections and a solid emergency action plan, the dam stands ready to address any unforeseen events and maintain its role in flood risk reduction. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of such infrastructure in adapting to a changing climate and ensuring the resilience of our communities.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
590 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
N. BR. RALSTON CR. |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
2.78 |
Nid Storage |
1016 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hills Access
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Lake Macbride State Park Campground
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F. W. Kent County Park
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Kent Park Family Campground
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River Junction Access
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