Blockton Watershed Site E-3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Blockton Watershed Site E-3, located in Taylor County, Iowa, is a crucial earth dam structure completed in 1973 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Managed by the local government, this site is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is designed by the USDA NRCS. With a dam height of 36 feet and a storage capacity of 167 acre-feet, this low-hazard potential structure plays a vital role in flood risk reduction for the region.
Situated on the TR-Platte River, this site covers a surface area of 9.8 acres with a drainage area of 0.38 square miles. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and has not been rated for condition assessment. As a part of the Rock Island District, this structure serves as a valuable resource for water management in Athelstan, offering emergency preparedness for potential inundation events.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Blockton Watershed Site E-3 presents a unique opportunity to study the intersection of infrastructure, conservation, and environmental stewardship. With its historical significance, ongoing regulatory oversight, and potential for future risk management measures, this site serves as a prime example of how dams play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and ensuring community safety in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
615 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.38 |
Nid Storage |
167 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Blockton Watershed Site E-3