Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 45 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 45 is a vital water resource in Iowa, owned and regulated by the local government with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1964, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management, as well as flood risk reduction. Located in Davis County, Iowa, near the town of Arbele, the dam is situated on the TR-South Wyacondah River and has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.
Managed by the USDA NRCS, the Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 45 dam stands at a height of 21 feet, with a length of 477 feet and a storage capacity of 159 acre-feet. The dam is primarily constructed of earth with a soil foundation, serving as a crucial infrastructure for water management in the region. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 45 to be a fascinating case study in sustainable water management. With its diverse purposes, regulatory oversight, and risk assessment, this dam exemplifies the intricate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in maintaining critical water resources for multiple uses in the region. The site's location on the TR-South Wyacondah River adds to its significance as a key component of the local watershed, highlighting the importance of effective dam infrastructure for water conservation and flood risk reduction efforts.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
477 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH WYACONDAH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.37 |
Nid Storage |
159 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
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 45