Hale Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hale Dam, located in Wapello, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

Completed in 1983, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and stretches for 450 feet, with a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is regularly inspected and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Hale Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a surface area of 2.8 acres and a drainage area of 0.33 square miles, the dam provides essential water storage for various uses while also contributing to the overall ecological balance of the area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type indicates a focus on efficient water release during high flow events, further highlighting its importance in maintaining a sustainable water supply.

Owned and operated by a private entity, Hale Dam stands as a testament to effective water infrastructure management in Iowa. With its strategic location in the Little Soap Creek watershed, the dam not only fulfills its primary purposes but also serves as a valuable asset for the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of Hale Dam in maintaining water security and ecological integrity in the region.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR- LITTLE SOAP CR.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.8

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

52

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.
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