Dickman Subwatershed Site M-2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Located in Woodbury County, Iowa, the Dickman Subwatershed Site M-2 is a local government-owned earth dam completed in 1973 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 42 feet and a length of 640 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet and serves to reduce flood risks in the area. Situated along TR-Parnell Creek, the dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a crucial infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Dickman Subwatershed Site M-2 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced for compliance with state standards. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation contribute to its structural integrity, while its condition assessment remains unrated. Although no emergency action plan is currently in place, the dam's risk management measures are under review to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating potential hazards and safeguarding the surrounding community. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the Dickman Subwatershed Site M-2 plays a vital role in maintaining water quality, supporting wildlife habitats, and enhancing overall ecosystem resilience in the area.

In collaboration with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Dickman Subwatershed Site M-2 demonstrates the importance of partnership in sustainable water resource management. With its strategic location, purposeful design, and functional operation, the dam serves as a model for integrating fire protection, agricultural water use, and ecological conservation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for resilient infrastructure and adaptive management practices, the Dickman Subwatershed Site M-2 stands as a testament to the critical role of dams in balancing human needs with environmental stewardship for a more sustainable future.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

640

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

TR-PARNELL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.7

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

94

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

42
       
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.