Blockton Watershed Site W-7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Blockton Watershed Site W-7, located in Blockton, Iowa, is a vital structure managed by the local government for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes, as well as flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Constructed in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans a length of 482 feet, with a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the TR-Platte River Ditch, plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Blockton Watershed Site W-7 is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it serves as a key infrastructure for water management in Taylor County, Iowa. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam provides essential protection against potential flooding events and contributes to the overall resilience of the local water resources system.

Managed by the USDA NRCS, Blockton Watershed Site W-7 is a significant component of the water infrastructure in the region, ensuring water supply for various uses while mitigating flood risks. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, this site showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices and underscores the critical role of dams in enhancing community resilience to changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

482

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-PLATTE RIVER DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.8

Drainage Area

0.27

Nid Storage

91

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.