Southpoint Wetland Mitigation Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

The Southpoint Wetland Mitigation Dam in Colfax, Iowa, stands as a crucial structure designed by Stanley Consultants to support fish and wildlife in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 2004, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 860 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. The dam serves as a fish and wildlife pond, enhancing the local ecosystem and providing habitat for various species.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Southpoint Wetland Mitigation Dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and maintaining water quality in the Tr-Skunk River. With a spillway width of 110 feet and a low hazard potential, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and overall satisfactory condition. Despite a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam continues to support its primary purpose of enhancing fish and wildlife habitat in the region.

Located within the Polk County of Iowa, the Southpoint Wetland Mitigation Dam is a testament to effective water resource management and environmental stewardship. With its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable infrastructure in supporting both natural ecosystems and human communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like the Southpoint Wetland Mitigation Dam play a crucial role in mitigating risks and preserving the ecological balance of the region.

Year Completed

2004

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR- SKUNK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.5

Drainage Area

1.51

Nid Storage

65

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.