Soap Creek Watershed Site 90-85, located in Selma, Iowa, is a flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2011.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam spans 837 feet in length and stands at a height of 39 feet, with a storage capacity of 876 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.38 square miles. Situated on Little Soap Creek, this low hazard potential dam is owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa DNR.
With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Soap Creek Watershed Site 90-85 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation. The dam features uncontrolled outlet gates and a spillway width of 30 feet, ensuring effective water management during periods of heavy rainfall. Despite being not rated for condition assessment, the structure has not undergone any modifications since its completion and maintains a low hazard potential.
As an essential component of water resource management in Wapello County, Soap Creek Watershed Site 90-85 serves as a testament to collaborative efforts between local government and federal agencies in safeguarding communities against the impacts of climate change. With its strategic location and design, this flood risk reduction structure stands as a vital asset in mitigating the risks associated with increasing precipitation and ensuring the resilience of the Soap Creek watershed for years to come.
Year Completed |
2011 |
Dam Length |
837 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
Little Soap Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26 |
Drainage Area |
2.38 |
Nid Storage |
876 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
15cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Wapello State Park Campground
|
||
Lake Wapello State Park
|
||
Drakesville City Park
|