Wessel Sediment Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Wessel Sediment Basin, located in Elkport, Iowa, was completed in 2005 by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of debris control.


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Summary

This privately-owned earth dam stands at 35 feet in height and spans 285 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 1 acre. Situated along a tributary to Elk Creek, this structure plays a crucial role in managing sediment and debris in the area.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated", the Wessel Sediment Basin serves as a reliable infrastructure for water resource management in Delaware County, Iowa. Despite lacking certain features such as spillways and outlet gates, this structure is designed to effectively control debris and protect the surrounding environment. As a key component in the local water management system, the basin contributes to maintaining water quality and reducing the risk of flooding in the region.

Although not under the jurisdiction of a state agency, the Wessel Sediment Basin is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its continued functionality and safety. With a focus on debris control and a track record of successful operation, this sediment basin stands as a testament to effective private ownership and management in water resource infrastructure. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the role that structures like the Wessel Sediment Basin play in maintaining the health and integrity of our natural water systems.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

285

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Trib to Elk Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.09

Nid Storage

18

Outlet Gates

None

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.