West Douglas Watershed Site L-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
West Douglas Watershed Site L-1 is a crucial water resource in the state of Iowa, located in Adams County near Villisca.
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Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, small fish pond maintenance, and flood risk reduction. With a height of 33 feet and a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet, this dam covers a surface area of 6 acres and drains a 0.3 square mile watershed area, helping to manage water flow in the TR-Middle Nodaway river system.
Managed by the Iowa DNR, this dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score of 3. While the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is primarily constructed of soil foundations, reflecting its design for sustainable water management practices. With its strategic location and purposeful design, West Douglas Watershed Site L-1 plays a vital role in protecting the local environment and community from potential water-related risks and disasters.
By understanding and appreciating the significance of West Douglas Watershed Site L-1, water resource and climate enthusiasts can recognize the importance of sustainable infrastructure in managing water resources effectively. This dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government, regulatory agencies, and conservation organizations in ensuring the resilience of water systems in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. With its multi-purpose design and low hazard potential, West Douglas Watershed Site L-1 serves as a model for responsible water resource management and underscores the need for continued investment in infrastructure that safeguards our environment and communities for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MIDDLE NODAWAY |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
99 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
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 L-1