Ahquabi Dredge Spoil Containment Dam 1a Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Located in Indianola, Iowa, the Ahquabi Dredge Spoil Containment Dam 1a is a state-regulated earth dam designed by Butts Engineering in 1995 for the primary purpose of debris control along TR- SQUAW CREEK.


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Summary

With a height of 39 feet and a length of 673 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 114 acre-feet and a surface area of 9.3 acres. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition has not been rated, and important data on inspection frequency and emergency preparedness is missing.

The dam, under the jurisdiction of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, does not have outlet gates or an established emergency action plan. While it has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, its risk management measures and adherence to guidelines remain unspecified. The dam's location in a moderate-risk area and its lack of key safety features raise concerns for potential hazards and the need for proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and water resources.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Ahquabi Dredge Spoil Containment Dam 1a should be aware of its critical role in debris control along TR- SQUAW CREEK in Warren County, Iowa. With a focus on low hazard potential and moderate risk, the dam's condition assessment and emergency preparedness require attention to mitigate potential risks to the community and the environment. Continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to uphold the dam's functionality and safeguard against unforeseen events.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

673

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

TR- SQUAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.3

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

168

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
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.