Mule Creek Watershed Site 2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Mills County, Iowa, Mule Creek Watershed Site 2 is a vital water resource managed by the local government with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
This earth dam structure, designed by USDA NRCS in 1953, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, small fish pond management, and flood risk reduction. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam provides a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet for the 0.18 square mile drainage area of the TR- Mule Creek stream.
Despite its small size, Mule Creek Watershed Site 2 plays a significant role in water resource management in the region. The dam stands at a height of 25 feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres, with a normal storage capacity of 14 acre-feet. While the spillway is uncontrolled, the dam's condition remains unrated, indicating a need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its long-term effectiveness in mitigating flood risks and supporting local water needs. The site is located in the city of Randolph and falls under the jurisdiction of the Iowa DNR, with a designated emergency action plan yet to be prepared.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and conservation of dams and water infrastructure will find Mule Creek Watershed Site 2 to be a fascinating case study. With its historical significance, multi-purpose functionality, and moderate risk assessment, this earth dam serves as a crucial component in the broader ecosystem of Mills County, Iowa. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's integrity, it remains a valuable asset in safeguarding water resources and enhancing resilience against potential flood events in the region.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR- MULE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.18 |
Nid Storage |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
|
512cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
East Nishnabotna River At Red Oak
|
305cfs |
Missouri River At Omaha
|
18800cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
24100cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
1190cfs |
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.
Mule Creek Watershed Site 2
US 34;US 275 Mills County