Tim Lau Site 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Tim Lau Site 2 is a privately owned grade stabilization structure located in Indianola, Iowa along Squaw Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 2016 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 473 feet in length, providing crucial flood control benefits to the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.15 square miles, this structure plays a vital role in managing water flow and reducing the risk of flooding in the region.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, Tim Lau Site 2 is categorized as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. Despite not being condition-rated, the dam is inspected, permitted, and regulated by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The spillway, with a width of 12 feet, is uncontrolled, while the outlet gates are also uncontrolled. The structure's primary purpose of grade stabilization underscores its importance in maintaining the stability of the surrounding landscape and preventing erosion.

Situated within the Kansas City District, Tim Lau Site 2 serves as a testament to effective collaboration between private owners and government agencies in safeguarding water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the design, purpose, and regulatory oversight of such structures is crucial for promoting sustainable water management practices and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

2016

Dam Length

473

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Squaw Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

63

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.