Rocky Branch Creek Watershed Site C-3b1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Jefferson, Iowa, the Rocky Branch Creek Watershed Site C-3b1 is a vital earth dam constructed in 1969 for fire protection, stock, small fish pond purposes, and flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Managed by the USDA NRCS, this low hazard potential structure spans 28 feet in height and stores 15 acre-feet of water within its 1-acre surface area. With a drainage area of 0.07 square miles, the dam serves as a crucial resource for the local community of Rome, providing essential water management for agricultural and environmental purposes.
Despite its moderate risk assessment, this dam has not been rated for its condition, and no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared. However, the Iowa DNR oversees the state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. With its uncontrolled spillway type, the Rocky Branch Creek Watershed Site C-3b1 is a significant component of the overall water management strategy for the area, contributing to flood risk reduction and water conservation efforts. As a key feature in the local landscape, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
Overall, the Rocky Branch Creek Watershed Site C-3b1 stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience in the Jefferson, Iowa area. With its strategic location on TR-ROCKY BRANCH CREEK and its association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam not only provides essential water storage capacity but also serves as a safeguard against potential flood risks. As climate change continues to impact the region, structures like this play a critical role in maintaining the balance between water resource utilization and environmental conservation, making them indispensable assets for sustainable development in the local community.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR- ROCKY BRANCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
English River At Kalona
|
41cfs |
Iowa River Near Lone Tree
|
942cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mac Coon Access
|
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Lake Darling State Park Campground
|
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Lake Darling State Park
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Brinton Timber
|
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Round Prairie Park
|
Rocky Branch Creek Watershed Site C-3b1