Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-36 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-36 in Monroe County, Iowa, is a flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Completed in 2011 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 560 feet, providing a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. Situated in the NW section of T71N, R16W, the dam serves as a critical component in managing the flow of a tributary to Soap Creek, helping to reduce the risk of flooding in the area.

With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-36 is designed to withstand up to 100 cubic feet per second of discharge with a spillway width of 12 feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, aligning with its mission to protect surrounding communities from potential water damage. As an integral part of the local water resource infrastructure, this site plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Selma and beyond.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Soap Creek Watershed Site 68-36 exemplifies the collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local agencies in safeguarding water resources and mitigating the impact of climate-related challenges. With its strategic location and effective design, this earth dam serves as a testament to innovative engineering solutions aimed at enhancing water management practices and promoting sustainable development in the region.

Year Completed

2011

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Trib to Soap Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.27

Nid Storage

78

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.