Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-71a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-71a, located in Monroe County, Iowa, is a critical flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2010.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at 30 feet tall and spans 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 255 acre-feet. Situated along the Tr to Boyd Branch river, this site plays a vital role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-71a is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this dam serves as a key component in the overall flood risk reduction efforts in the region. Its location in Selma, Iowa, and its primary purpose of flood risk reduction highlight the importance of this site in maintaining water resource sustainability in the area.
With a drainage area of 0.73 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 385 cubic feet per second, Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-71a exemplifies the collaboration between local government, state agencies, and federal designers in safeguarding communities against the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding the significance of structures like this in mitigating flood risks and protecting our natural environment is essential for promoting resilience and sustainability in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2010 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
Tr to Boyd Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.73 |
Nid Storage |
255 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
15cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
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 68-71a
Rathbun Lake Near Rathbun
200th Avenue Appanoose County