North Branch Ralston Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
North Branch Ralston Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1983 and is 43 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 37 ft (taller than 77.4% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 590 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1983 (43 years old) |
| NID ID | IA02249 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
City of Iowa City
Local Government
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High Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of North Branch Ralston Creek Dam?
North Branch Ralston Creek Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates North Branch Ralston Creek Dam?
North Branch Ralston Creek Dam is owned by City of Iowa City (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was North Branch Ralston Creek Dam built?
North Branch Ralston Creek Dam was completed in 1983, making it 43 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of North Branch Ralston Creek Dam?
North Branch Ralston Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is North Branch Ralston Creek Dam?
North Branch Ralston Creek Dam has a dam height of 37 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was North Branch Ralston Creek Dam last inspected?
North Branch Ralston Creek Dam was last inspected on June 30, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.