Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 38-2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 38-2 is a significant earth dam located in Audubon, Iowa, designed by the USDA NRCS in 1978 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This dam, standing at a height of 38 feet with a length of 798 feet, provides a storage capacity of 152 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8.1 acres. Situated along the TR-Troublesome Creek, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR for flood risk reduction and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and functionality.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 38-2 serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area, offering protection against potential flooding events and maintaining water levels for various purposes. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam is under state jurisdiction and meets regulatory guidelines for safety and management. As a key component in the water resource infrastructure of the region, this dam plays a crucial role in water conservation, emergency preparedness, and overall environmental sustainability.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 38-2 in the broader context of water management and conservation efforts. By understanding its purpose, design, and regulatory framework, we can appreciate the role this dam plays in mitigating flood risks, ensuring water availability for various needs, and contributing to the overall resilience of the local environment. Let's continue to monitor, support, and advocate for responsible water resource management practices to safeguard our communities and natural ecosystems for generations to come.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

798

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-TROUBLESOME CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.1

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

152

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.