Mulvihill Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: March 4, 2026
Mulvihill Dam, located in Carlisle, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by NRCS for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.
Summary
Completed in 1998, this earth dam stands 28 feet tall and spans 558 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 17 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.2 acres, serving the purpose of protecting the area from fire hazards and providing water for livestock or recreational fishing.
Situated on the TR- North River, Mulvihill Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is considered to be in good condition, although it has not been officially rated. While the dam currently has an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, it remains an important water resource for the surrounding area and a key feature for water enthusiasts interested in water management and climate resilience.
Overall, Mulvihill Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in Madison County, Iowa. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam serves as a vital resource for fire protection, livestock watering, and recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of dams like Mulvihill in ensuring water availability and safeguarding against potential hazards becomes increasingly evident, making it a significant structure for both water resource management and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
558 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR- NORTH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.34 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
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.
Mulvihill Dam
120th Street Madison County