Sw Branch Dry Run Creek Stormwater Detention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Sw Branch Dry Run Creek Stormwater Detention Dam, located in Cedar Falls, Iowa, is a vital structure designed by Earth Tech to mitigate flood risks in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 2003, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans 1070 feet along the SW Branch Dry Run Creek. With a storage capacity of 218 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing stormwater runoff and protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.

Operated by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this dam is inspected biennially to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the Sw Branch Dry Run Creek Stormwater Detention Dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and presents a moderate risk level according to risk assessments. Despite its risk, the dam serves as a key asset in flood risk reduction efforts in the Black Hawk County area, providing a sense of security to residents and businesses located downstream.

As a significant resource in the region, the Sw Branch Dry Run Creek Stormwater Detention Dam exemplifies the importance of proactive infrastructure investments in water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location and design, this dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures and serves as a model for sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

SW Branch Dry Run Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

5.3

Nid Storage

218

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.