Thacther Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Thacther Dam, located in Carlisle, Iowa, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 22 feet high and stretches 425 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, it primarily regulates the flow of Badger Creek, covering a surface area of 4.1 acres and draining a 0.2 square mile area.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Thacther Dam is classified as having low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The dam is inspected and regulated by state authorities, ensuring its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. Even though it has not been rated for its condition assessment, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Thacther Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and state agencies in safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. With its strategic location in Warren County, Iowa, this essential infrastructure not only supports local agriculture and wildlife but also contributes to community safety and emergency response preparedness. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we recognize the vital role that Thacther Dam plays in sustainable water management practices and look forward to continued efforts to ensure its long-term effectiveness and resilience.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR- BADGER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.1

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.