Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-88 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-88 in Monroe, Iowa, is a local government-owned flood risk reduction structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 2009.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet, with a length of 660 feet and a storage capacity of 432 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation and water damage.

Located in Selma along the Tr to Soap Creek, this site falls under the jurisdiction of the Iowa DNR and is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities. Despite its low hazard potential and not being currently rated for its condition, Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-88 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating the impact of extreme weather events in the region. With a drainage area of 1.33 square miles and a maximum discharge of 3270 cubic feet per second, this structure serves as a vital component of the local water management infrastructure.

While lacking detailed information on its emergency action plan, risk assessment, and management measures, Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-88 remains a significant asset for the community in terms of water resource management and climate resilience. Its strategic location, design, and operational status contribute to the overall safety and sustainability of the area, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in addressing water-related challenges in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

2009

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

Tr to Soap Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Drainage Area

1.33

Nid Storage

432

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.