Simonsen Subwatershed Lat A Sta20+00 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Cherokee, Iowa, the Simonsen Subwatershed Lat A Sta20+00 structure is a vital component for fire protection, stock maintenance, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1952 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stretches 240 feet in length and stands at a height of 32 feet, offering a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1.3 acres and a drainage area of 0.15 square miles, this dam on Rock Creek serves to mitigate flood risks in the region while also supporting local agriculture and wildlife.

Maintained by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Simonsen Subwatershed Lat A Sta20+00 structure has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of its condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not undergone recent inspections or evaluations. Its spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has no associated locks or gates. The structure's risk management measures and emergency action plans have not been updated or assessed, highlighting potential areas for improvement in ensuring the safety and functionality of this essential water resource infrastructure.

In the heart of Washta, Iowa, the Simonsen Subwatershed Lat A Sta20+00 structure stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it is crucial for local governments and agencies to prioritize the maintenance and evaluation of structures like this dam to ensure the safety of communities and the environment. With proper oversight and investment, this dam can continue to serve its essential purposes while adapting to the evolving challenges of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

ROCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.3

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.