Davids Creek Watershed Site 1b-2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Davids Creek Watershed Site 1b-2, located in Audubon, Iowa, is a vital infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1977, stands at a height of 45 feet and spans 810 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 685 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 1.24 square miles and a surface area of 14.4 acres, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water flow along the TR-DAVIDS CREEK.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Iowa DNR, Davids Creek Watershed Site 1b-2 has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. Regular inspections ensure its operational effectiveness, with the last assessment conducted in May 2019. Despite the moderate risk level associated with this dam, its strategic location and design contribute significantly to flood control efforts in the region, providing a sense of security for residents in the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Davids Creek Watershed Site 1b-2 offers a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity in managing water resources. The collaboration between federal and state agencies, as well as the local community, showcases a proactive approach to addressing flood risks and ensuring the safety and well-being of the population. As the climate continues to change, structures like this earth dam play a critical role in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events and safeguarding the environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

810

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

TR-DAVIDS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.4

Drainage Area

1.24

Nid Storage

685

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

45
       
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.