Brad Wiley Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Brad Wiley Dam is a privately owned structure located in Thompson River, Iowa, designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 2014.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans a length of 380 feet, serving multiple purposes such as grade stabilization, recreation, and water supply. With a normal storage capacity of 18 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 3 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Brad Wiley Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the dam poses a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of risk assessment and management measures. With its strategic location along TR - Loefler Creek and involvement in grade stabilization projects, the dam is a key player in maintaining water quality, mitigating erosion, and supporting local ecosystems in Madison County, Iowa.

While Brad Wiley Dam may not have a significant presence in federal agency operations, its contribution to water resource management and climate resilience in the region is undeniable. With its efficient design, moderate risk level, and multiple purposes, the dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners, regulatory agencies, and design professionals to ensure sustainable water management practices in Iowa.

Year Completed

2014

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR - Loefler Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

32

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.