W. Housel Reservoir Report
Nearby: Iowa Noname20 Sandven Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
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Summary
Housel, located in Dakota City, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS for grade stabilization purposes along the Tr- Des Moines River E Fork. Completed in 1968, the dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 360 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet. The dam serves to mitigate erosion and protect the surrounding area from the impacts of water flow and sedimentation.
Despite its low hazard potential, W. Housel is subject to periodic inspections to assess its condition and ensure its effectiveness in managing water resources in the region. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam is monitored for any necessary risk management measures. While specific details about the dam's current condition and emergency preparedness are not available, its presence highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the area.
As part of the St. Paul District under USDA NRCS oversight, W. Housel plays a crucial role in the local water management system, contributing to flood control and ecosystem protection. Its strategic location in Humboldt County, Iowa, underscores the importance of sustainable water resource practices in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring the long-term resilience of the region's water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
Tr- Des Moines River E Fork |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
1.79 |
Nid Storage |
102 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
East Fork Des Moines River At Dakota City
|
255cfs |
Des Moines River At Humboldt
|
401cfs |
Des Moines River At Fort Dodge
|
1320cfs |
Iowa River Near Rowan
|
195cfs |
Boone River Near Webster City
|
232cfs |
Des Moines River Near Stratford
|
1720cfs |
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.
W. Housel