Mill Picayune Watershed Site M-14-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 3, 2026
Located in Shelby County, Iowa, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site M-14-1 is a dam constructed in 1975 by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and spans a length of 525 feet, with a storage capacity of 236 acre-feet. Situated along TR-Mill Creek, the dam serves to reduce flood risks in the area, covering a drainage area of 0.57 square miles.
Maintained by the local government and regulated by the Iowa DNR, this dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being rated for its condition, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site M-14-1 is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. With a surface area of 8 acres and a normal storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site M-14-1 presents an intriguing case study of a multipurpose dam designed for both practical and environmental benefits. With its strategic location, efficient design, and regulated operations, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding communities against flooding events and supporting local ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
525 |
Dam Height |
47 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.57 |
Nid Storage |
236 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
47 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Boyer River At Logan
|
417cfs |
Soldier River At Pisgah
|
112cfs |
Little Sioux River Near Turin
|
1040cfs |
Monona-Harrison Ditch Near Turin
|
158cfs |
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
West Nishnabotna River At Hancock
|
154cfs |
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.
Mill Picayune Watershed Site M-14-1