West Douglas Watershed Site L-7, located in Villisca, Iowa, is a key water resource managed by the local government with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. This earth dam, completed in 1968, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, small fish pond management, and flood risk reduction. With a height of 42 feet and a length of 412 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres within a drainage area of 0.25 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam at West Douglas Watershed Site L-7 is deemed to have a moderate risk level. The structure, primarily constructed for agricultural and environmental purposes, is not currently rated for its condition. While it does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan or updated emergency contacts, the dam is inspected regularly and meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The risk management measures for this site are not specified, but the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the infrastructure and management of sites like West Douglas Watershed Site L-7 is essential for maintaining the balance between human needs and environmental sustainability. This dam exemplifies the importance of multi-purpose structures in managing water resources for various uses while also highlighting the need for ongoing assessment and risk management to ensure the safety and effectiveness of such critical infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.