Mill Picayune Watershed Site D-3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mill Picayune Watershed Site D-3, located in Woodbine, Iowa, is a crucial dam structure built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS to serve multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and flood risk reduction.


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Summary

With a dam height of 42 feet and a storage capacity of 114 acre-feet, this earth dam plays a pivotal role in managing water resources in the area. Situated on the TR-Boyer River, this dam covers a drainage area of 0.5 square miles and has a surface area of 5.8 acres, making it an essential feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa DNR, Mill Picayune Watershed Site D-3 is deemed to have a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam has not been modified over the years since its completion. With a spillway type of uncontrolled, this dam is designed to handle any excess water flow effectively. The site also boasts a strategic location within the Rock Island District and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Iowa, further highlighting its significance in the region.

As a structure that meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, Mill Picayune Watershed Site D-3 sets a standard for responsible water resource management. With its primary purpose of ensuring safety and sustainability in the face of potential flooding and other water-related risks, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive climate and water resource management practices. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, this site serves as a valuable case study in the intersection of infrastructure, environment, and community resilience.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

711

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

TR-BOYER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.8

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

114

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

42
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.