Parnell Creek Subwatershed Site 5-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Parnell Creek Subwatershed Site 5-1, located in Smithland, Iowa, is a low hazard potential earth dam completed in 1969 for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Managed by the USDA NRCS, this dam has a height of 36 feet and a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet, serving as a vital component in flood risk reduction for the region. With a drainage area of 0.07 square miles and a surface area of 2 acres, this dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the area.
Despite being uncontrolled, Parnell Creek Subwatershed Site 5-1 has a moderate risk assessment rating and is regulated by the Iowa DNR. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and it has not been inspected recently. However, its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment suggest a relatively stable structure. With its strategic location along TR- Parnell Creek and proximity to the Rock Island District, this dam is a critical infrastructure contributing to the overall water resource management in Woodbury County, Iowa.
As a key feature in the local water management system, Parnell Creek Subwatershed Site 5-1 underscores the importance of effective dam infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and supporting various water-related activities. With its historical significance and ongoing role in protecting the region from potential hazards, this earth dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government agencies, the USDA NRCS, and the Iowa DNR in ensuring the resilience of water resources and climate adaptation measures in the area.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR- PARNELL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
West Fork Ditch At Hornick
|
80cfs |
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
Little Sioux River Near Turin
|
1040cfs |
Monona-Harrison Ditch Near Turin
|
158cfs |
Missouri River At Decatur
|
15500cfs |
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.
Parnell Creek Subwatershed Site 5-1