Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-42 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-42 in Monroe, Iowa, is a local government-owned dam designed by USDA NRCS to address flood risk reduction in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 2007, this earth dam stands at 33 feet high and spans 510 feet, providing a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.23 square miles. Located in Selma, the dam on a tributary to Soap Creek is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its functionality and safety.
With a low hazard potential and a not yet rated condition assessment, Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-42 plays a crucial role in managing flood risks in the area. Although not associated with any federal agencies, the dam is operated by the local government and serves as a key infrastructure for flood control. Despite its modest size, the dam's strategic location and design make it a vital component of the watershed's resilience against extreme weather events, showcasing the importance of localized water resource management efforts in adapting to a changing climate.
As part of the broader ecosystem of water resource infrastructure in the region, Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-42 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local authorities and design experts in safeguarding communities from flood-related disasters. With its specific focus on flood risk reduction and its state-regulated operations, this dam exemplifies the proactive approach taken by Iowa in managing its water resources and adapting to the challenges posed by climate change. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates continue to monitor and support sustainable water management practices, sites like Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-42 serve as tangible examples of resilience and innovation in the face of environmental uncertainties.
Year Completed |
2007 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Soap Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
86 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
15cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
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.
Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-42
Rathbun Lake Near Rathbun
200th Avenue Appanoose County