Pony Creek Watershed Site 26 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Pony Creek Watershed Site 26, located in Mills County, Iowa, is a key component of the local water resource management system.


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Summary

Constructed in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, small fish pond, and flood risk reduction. With a dam height of 37 feet and a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet, it plays a vital role in regulating water flow in the TR-Pony Creek, contributing to the overall ecological health of the region.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Pony Creek Watershed Site 26 is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the site is rated as having a moderate risk level, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. The dam's condition assessment is currently labeled as "Not Rated," suggesting the need for further evaluation to determine its overall safety and effectiveness in mitigating potential hazards.

While Pony Creek Watershed Site 26 has not been recently inspected, its historical significance and role in water resource management make it a crucial asset for the community of Pacific Junction. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and water availability, the proper maintenance and upkeep of this dam will be essential in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem and the safety of residents downstream.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

388

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

TR-PONY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.8

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

36

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.