Lapke Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Lapke Dam, located in Woodbine, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 2006 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at 23 feet tall and spans a length of 440 feet, with a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet. Situated on TR- Mill Creek in Shelby County, Lapke Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Lapke Dam poses a moderate risk due to its condition not being rated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 2 feet and is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 0 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 0.43 square miles, Lapke Dam covers a surface area of 4 acres and serves as a vital water resource for the local community.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Lapke Dam's contribution to fire protection and wildlife conservation in the area. The dam's construction by the NRCS showcases a commitment to sustainable water management practices, while its location in the Rock Island District adds to its significance in the region. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's integrity, Lapke Dam remains a key feature in ensuring water security and environmental resilience for Shelby County, Iowa.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR- MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.43

Nid Storage

77

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.