Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 35 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Davis County, Iowa, the Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 35 is a crucial water resource managed by the local government.
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Summary
Constructed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. With a dam height of 17 feet and a storage capacity of 148 acre-feet, this site plays a key role in flood risk reduction for the surrounding area.
Situated on the TR-South Wyacondah River, this watershed site covers a drainage area of 0.51 square miles and has a surface area of 10 acres. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the condition of the dam is currently not rated. However, with state regulation, inspection, and enforcement in place, the Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 35 is well-maintained and continues to fulfill its designated purposes effectively. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this site offers a unique opportunity to study the intersection of infrastructure, conservation, and sustainable water management practices.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this watershed site is a testament to the collaborative efforts of various agencies in ensuring the safety and functionality of water resources in the region. With support from the local government and state regulatory agencies like the Iowa DNR, the Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 35 stands as a model for responsible dam management and serves as a valuable asset for both the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
471 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH WYACONDAH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.51 |
Nid Storage |
148 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
14cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Lake Fisher
|
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McGowen Rec Area
|
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Drakesville City Park
|
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Lake Wapello State Park
|
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Lake Wapello State Park Campground
|
Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 35