Muhlbauer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Muhlbauer Dam, located in Denison, Iowa, was completed in 2001 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

This private dam, designed by NRCS, has a height of 27 feet and a length of 325 feet, providing a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. Situated on TR- Hay Creek, the dam's primary owner is a private entity, with regulatory oversight from the Iowa DNR.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Muhlbauer Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Crawford County, Iowa. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation highlight its earth dam type construction. Despite its condition assessment being "Not Rated", the dam's overall risk management measures are deemed sufficient to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

Muhlbauer Dam's strategic location, efficient design, and operational compliance with state regulations make it a valuable asset for water supply and climate resilience in the region. As a key structure in the Rock Island District, the dam contributes to flood control, irrigation, and wildlife habitat enhancement along Hay Creek, reflecting the importance of sustainable water resource management in a changing climate.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR- HAY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Drainage Area

0.29

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.