Upper Locust Creek Watershed Site L-41 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Located in Wayne County, Iowa, the Upper Locust Creek Watershed Site L-41 is a flood risk reduction infrastructure managed by local government authorities with design input from the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 2007, this earth dam stands at 24 feet high and spans 485 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.19 square miles. Situated near the Tr to E. Fork Locust Creek, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the region.

With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," the Upper Locust Creek Watershed Site L-41 serves as a key asset in the state's regulatory framework, under the oversight of the Iowa DNR. While not USACE-managed, this dam contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in the area, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, this structure ensures the safety and resilience of the surrounding communities in face of potential water-related challenges.

As a vital component in the local water infrastructure network, the Upper Locust Creek Watershed Site L-41 provides essential flood protection measures for the residents of Wayne County and beyond. With its strategic location, design features, and regulatory compliance, this dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management practices and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between various agencies in safeguarding against climate-related risks in the region.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

485

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Tr to E. Fork Locust Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.