Carl Kirkland Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Located in Union County, Iowa, the Carl Kirkland Dam is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for grade stabilization along the TR-Loefler Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 2014, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 491 feet in length, providing storage for 109 acre-feet of water. With a primary purpose of grade stabilization, the dam also serves for recreation and water supply in the area.

The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a crucial asset for managing water resources in the region. Operated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Carl Kirkland Dam plays a vital role in flood control and water management, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment. With uncontrolled spillways and outlets, the dam contributes to maintaining the water levels and flow rates in the TR-Loefler Creek watershed, benefiting both the ecosystem and local communities.

Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the Carl Kirkland Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location and design, this dam showcases the importance of private and public partnerships in safeguarding water supplies, enhancing recreational opportunities, and mitigating flood risks in the face of changing climate conditions. As a critical infrastructure in the Rock Island District, the Carl Kirkland Dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering innovation and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

2014

Dam Length

491

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR-Loefler Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

109

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.