Waubonsie Cr. Watershed Site 23-1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site 23-1 is a vital water resource located in Mills County, Iowa, near the city of Bartlett.


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Summary

Managed by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS, this site serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock supply, and small fish pond maintenance. Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a storage capacity of 349 acre-feet, with a surface area of 20 acres. The dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction for the surrounding area, as it regulates water flow in the Waubonsie Creek.

The dam at Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site 23-1 is regulated by the Iowa DNR, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement ensuring its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite being rated as low hazard potential, the site's condition remains unrated as of now. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate (3), highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks. With a history of ownership by local government and funding from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this site exemplifies the collaborative efforts required to sustain and protect water resources in the region.

As a significant feature in the Omaha District managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site 23-1 stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of climate change. With its strategic location and multi-purpose design, this dam serves as a critical infrastructure for safeguarding the surrounding communities and ecosystems. As enthusiasts for water resources and climate action, it is essential to recognize and support the ongoing efforts to ensure the resilience and sustainability of sites like Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site 23-1.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

TR-WAUBONSIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

0.45

Nid Storage

349

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.