Wolfe Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Wolfe Dam, located in Carlisle, Iowa, is a private earth dam completed in 2000 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

The dam stands at 26 feet in height and spans 575 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.4 acres. Situated on TR- Cherry Creek, Wolfe Dam is regulated and inspected by the state of Iowa, with enforcement and jurisdiction also falling under state authority.

Despite its low hazard potential, Wolfe Dam poses a moderate risk, with a risk assessment rating of 3. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it meets state inspection requirements and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway. The dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are not specified in the data, but its location in Madison County, Iowa, under the Rock Island District, highlights the significance of this structure in local water resource management.

Wolfe Dam serves as a crucial element in the region's water infrastructure, providing essential functions for fire protection, livestock, and recreational activities such as fishing. With its strategic location and design by J. Russell Hochstetler, the dam represents a blend of practical utility and environmental stewardship. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and regulation of structures like Wolfe Dam are essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of Iowa's water supply and ecosystem health.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

575

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR- CHERRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.4

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

124

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.