Pony Creek Watershed Site 8a Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Pony Creek Watershed Site 8a is a vital water resource located in Mills County, Iowa, near Pacific Junction.


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Summary

This site, owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and flood risk reduction. The earth dam, completed in 1966, stands at 62 feet high and spans 550 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Pony Creek Watershed Site 8a poses a moderate risk, with a drainage area of 0.32 square miles and a surface area of 4.2 acres. The dam's condition is currently not rated, with the last inspection conducted in September 2005. The site's risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level (3), although specific risk management measures are not outlined in the available data.

Overall, Pony Creek Watershed Site 8a presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of human infrastructure with natural ecosystems. With its rich history, diverse purposes, and regulatory oversight, this site offers a unique opportunity for further exploration and analysis in the context of sustainable water management and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

62

River Or Stream

TR-PONY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.2

Drainage Area

0.32

Nid Storage

124

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

62
       
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.