Blockton Watershed Site W-5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Blockton Watershed Site W-5, located in Blockton, Iowa, is a key resource for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes, as well as flood risk reduction.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1966, is primarily an earth structure with a height of 22 feet and a length of 514 feet. With a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet, the dam serves a drainage area of 0.31 square miles and covers a surface area of 6.5 acres. The site is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.

The Blockton Watershed Site W-5, situated along the TR-Platte River, is owned by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition remains unrated. The site's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are currently not documented, indicating potential areas for improvement in emergency preparedness. With Cindy Axne representing the area in Congress, there is an opportunity for increased federal support and funding for the site's maintenance and enhancement.

As a significant water resource in Taylor, Iowa, Blockton Watershed Site W-5 plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts. With its multi-purpose functionality and strategic location on the TR-Platte River, the site holds promise for further development and utilization in the realm of climate change adaptation and sustainable water resource management. By leveraging its existing infrastructure and engaging in proactive risk management practices, Blockton Watershed Site W-5 can continue to serve as a valuable asset for the local community and contribute to the broader efforts to address water-related challenges in the region.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

514

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-PLATTE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.5

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

79

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.