Rocky Branch Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Rocky Branch Creek, Site Mike Taylor Dam in Winterset, Iowa, is a privately owned dam designed by the USDA - NRCS for grade stabilization purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 2016, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans a length of 442 feet, with a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including grade stabilization, recreation, and water supply, making it a valuable resource for the local community.

Located in Madison County, Iowa, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score, the dam poses minimal risk to surrounding areas. The spillway width of 14 feet and maximum discharge of 26 cubic feet per second help to manage water flow during high precipitation events, further enhancing the dam's effectiveness in flood control.

Overall, Rocky Branch Creek, Site Mike Taylor Dam is a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region. With its strategic location and multi-purpose design, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality, supporting recreational activities, and safeguarding against potential flooding events. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this site an intriguing case study in sustainable dam construction and management practices.

Year Completed

2016

Dam Length

442

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR - Rocky Branch Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.1

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

71

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.