Mill Picayune Watershed Site M-8 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Shelby, Iowa, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site M-8 is a critical water resource managed by the local government for fire protection and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 46 feet and spans 1365 feet, with a storage capacity of 2333 acre-feet and a surface area of 30.4 acres. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
The Mill Picayune Watershed Site M-8 poses a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment, making it a vital asset for water management in the region. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has been deemed safe for the surrounding community, with emergency preparedness measures in place. With a drainage area of 18.12 square miles and controlled by an uncontrolled spillway, this site plays a crucial role in water conservation and management efforts in the area.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and with a designated inspection frequency of five years, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site M-8 serves as a key component in the water infrastructure of Shelby, Iowa. With its strategic location in the Mill Creek watershed and its vital functions for fire protection and fish pond purposes, this dam underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1365 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
MILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30.4 |
Drainage Area |
18.12 |
Nid Storage |
2333 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
46 |
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 M-8