Garton Subwatershed M-4619 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Iowa Noname66 Gerlach Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Buena Vista County, Iowa, the Garton Subwatershed M-4619 is a crucial water resource managed by the local government with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1951 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock water supply, and flood risk reduction for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.62 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.
The Garton Subwatershed M-4619 dam stands at a height of 27 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement ensure the safety and functionality of the dam. The dam's spillway, categorized as uncontrolled, helps to regulate water flow during periods of high discharge. Despite its modest surface area of 5 acres, the dam provides essential water storage and flood protection benefits for the local community.
As a part of the larger watershed system, the Garton Subwatershed M-4619 plays a critical role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its strategic location along the TR-Little Sioux River, the dam helps to mitigate flood risks and protect downstream areas. Managed by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam exemplifies the collaborative approach needed to sustainably manage water resources and adapt to changing climate conditions in Iowa.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR- LITTLE SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.62 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Sioux River At Linn Grove
|
257cfs |
Ocheyedan River Near Spencer
|
59cfs |
Floyd River At Alton
|
36cfs |
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Floyd River At James
|
187cfs |
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.
Garton Subwatershed M-4619