Mill Picayune Watershed Site N-27-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in Shelby County, Iowa, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site N-27-1 is a critical water resource managed by the local government for multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 696 feet, providing a storage capacity of 105 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 0.36 square miles, this dam plays a significant role in flood risk reduction along the TR-North Picayune Creek.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this watershed site is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, highlighting the state's commitment to water resource management and enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the condition assessment of this dam is currently not rated. With a surface area of 6.1 acres and a normal storage capacity of 38 acre-feet, this site serves as a vital asset for water management in the region, while also supporting local wildlife habitats and recreational activities.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site N-27-1 stands as a symbol of proactive water resource management in Iowa. With its strategic location and design for multiple purposes, this dam represents a sustainable approach to balancing environmental conservation and human needs. As stakeholders work towards enhancing the resilience of such infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions, this watershed site serves as a valuable model for integrated water resource management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
696 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH PICAYUNE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.36 |
Nid Storage |
105 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Boyer River At Logan
|
417cfs |
Soldier River At Pisgah
|
112cfs |
Little Sioux River Near Turin
|
1040cfs |
Monona-Harrison Ditch Near Turin
|
158cfs |
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
West Nishnabotna River At Hancock
|
154cfs |
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.
Mill Picayune Watershed Site N-27-1