Mill Picayune Watershed Site N-28-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in Shelby, Iowa, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site N-28-1 is a key resource managed by the local government for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
With a dam height of 38 feet and a length of 710 feet, this earth-type structure was completed in 1972 and boasts a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet, serving as a vital component for flood risk reduction in the area. Situated along the TR-North Picayune Creek, this site covers a drainage area of 0.24 square miles and has a surface area of 4.2 acres, making it an essential part of the region's water management infrastructure.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site N-28-1 is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and efficacy for the surrounding community. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the site is rated as moderate risk (3), emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. While the dam has not been assessed for condition, its role in water resource management and emergency response planning highlights the need for continued attention and upkeep to safeguard the local environment and population.
With its strategic location and essential functions, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site N-28-1 plays a crucial role in the water resource management infrastructure of Shelby, Iowa. Designed by the USDA NRCS and maintained by the local government, this site not only provides critical water storage for fire protection and stock purposes but also contributes to flood risk reduction efforts in the region. As part of the broader network of water management structures along the TR-North Picayune Creek, this site underscores the importance of proactive monitoring, maintenance, and risk assessment to ensure the safety and resilience of the community in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource challenges.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
710 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH PICAYUNE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.24 |
Nid Storage |
84 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
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-28-1