Mill Picayune Watershed Site P-79-1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Woodbine, Iowa, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site P-79-1 is a crucial water resource managed by the local government for various purposes, including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance.


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Summary

Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 46 feet high and spans 493 feet, providing storage capacity for up to 99 acre-feet of water. The dam's primary function is flood risk reduction, serving as a vital infrastructure in the region's water management system.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site P-79-1 is a key component in maintaining water quality and quantity in the Shelby County area. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Iowa DNR, ensuring its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential water-related hazards.

Situated along the Picayune Creek, this watershed site plays a significant role in water conservation and management efforts in the region. With a surface area of 6.8 acres and a drainage area of 0.26 square miles, the dam helps regulate water flow and mitigate flood risks, contributing to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site P-79-1 stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

493

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

1024TR-PICAYUNE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.8

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

99

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

46
       
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.