West Douglas Watershed Site E-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
West Douglas Watershed Site E-1 is a significant earth-type dam located in Villisca, Iowa, along the TR-MIDDLE NODAWAY river.
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Summary
Built in 1968 for fire protection and stock or small fish pond purposes, this dam stands at 23 feet high and spans 580 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple functions, including flood risk reduction, highlighting its importance in water resource management.
Managed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR, this dam is considered to have a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. While the condition assessment is not rated and no emergency action plan is prepared, the dam's risk management measures are not specified. With its location in the West Douglas Watershed, this site plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related hazards and ensuring sustainable water resource management for the community.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential, West Douglas Watershed Site E-1 serves as a vital infrastructure for the local government, providing essential services for fire protection and water storage. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the significance of this dam in maintaining water security and mitigating flood risks cannot be understated. It is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and evaluate the condition and management of critical infrastructure like West Douglas Watershed Site E-1 to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MIDDLE NODAWAY |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.18 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Hacklebarney Woods County Park
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Viking Lake State Park
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Viking Lake State Park Campground
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Pilot Grove Co Park
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West Douglas Watershed Site E-1