Bear Creek Watershed Site 51, located in Quandahl, Iowa, is a key site for flood risk reduction along the TR-South Bear Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 2005 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 240 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is flood risk reduction, serving not only to protect the local community but also to manage water resources effectively in the area. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this site plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flood damage and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.
Despite not being state regulated, Bear Creek Watershed Site 51 is a significant asset in the region, with its stone core and soil foundation contributing to its structural integrity. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 10 feet, further enhances its ability to manage water flow during heavy rainfall events. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its location in a high-risk area underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction efforts. This site serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government and federal agencies in safeguarding water resources and enhancing climate resilience in the Bear Creek Watershed.
Year Completed |
2005 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-South Bear Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Drainage Area |
0.21 |
Nid Storage |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Upper Iowa River Near Dorchester
|
338cfs |
Upper Iowa River At Decorah
|
257cfs |
Upper Iowa River At Bluffton
|
219cfs |
South Fork Root River Near Houston
|
151cfs |
Turkey River At Spillville
|
24cfs |
Root River Near Houston
|
537cfs |