Soap Creek Watershed Site 4-78 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Soap Creek Watershed Site 4-78, located in the city of Selma, Iowa, is a flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2007.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 335 feet, with a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.12 square miles. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a vital defense against potential inundation and ensuring the safety of residents in the surrounding area.
Managed by the local government, this site plays a crucial role in protecting the watershed and preventing potential hazards. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Soap Creek Watershed Site 4-78 is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has not been subject to a condition assessment. While the dam has not been rated for its current condition, it stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As one of the key structures in the area's flood control infrastructure, its presence is essential in maintaining the safety and security of the community.
With its strategic location in the Tributary to Buzzard Creek, Soap Creek Watershed Site 4-78 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government and federal agencies in addressing flood risks and ensuring sustainable water resource management. As a part of the larger network of flood risk reduction structures in the region, this dam serves as a vital component in safeguarding against potential disasters and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events. Its completion in 2007 marked a significant milestone in enhancing the resilience of the community to climate change and water-related risks, highlighting the importance of proactive infrastructure development in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
2007 |
Dam Length |
335 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Buzzard Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
34 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Wapello State Park Campground
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Lake Wapello State Park
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Honey Creek State Park Campground
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Soap Creek Watershed Site 4-78
Rathbun Lake Near Rathbun
200th Avenue Appanoose County