Sopa Creek Watershed Site 4-40a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in the heart of Appanoose County, Iowa, the Sopa Creek Watershed Site 4-40a is a critical resource for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Managed by the local government with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 452 feet in length. Completed in 1998, the dam has a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.6 acres, serving as a vital flood risk reduction measure for the surrounding area.
The Sopa Creek Watershed Site 4-40a plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources in the region, with a drainage area of 0.3 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition remains unrated. With uncontrolled spillways and no outlet gates, the site ensures the safety and security of the local community while supporting the ecological balance of the TR- South Soap Creek watershed. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of sustainable management practices to preserve and protect sites like Sopa Creek Watershed Site 4-40a for future generations.
As a collaborative effort between the USDA NRCS and local authorities, the Sopa Creek Watershed Site 4-40a stands as a testament to effective water resource management and conservation practices. With a primary purpose of fire protection and stock maintenance, this earth dam serves as a multi-functional structure that enhances the resilience of the local ecosystem. From flood risk reduction to ensuring water security, the site exemplifies the harmonious balance between human needs and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate dynamics.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
452 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SOUTH SOAP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
97 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Wapello State Park
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Lake Wapello State Park Campground
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Honey Creek State Park Campground
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Sopa Creek Watershed Site 4-40a
Rathbun Lake Near Rathbun
200th Avenue Appanoose County