Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 50-4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 50-4, located in Audubon, Iowa, is a low-hazard earth dam completed in 1979 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this site is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam stands at 28 feet high, with a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.8 acres, serving as a vital resource for flood risk reduction in the area.

With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 50-4 is deemed to have a manageable risk level. Although the dam is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it is important to note that it meets state jurisdiction and regulatory standards for operation. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation events, safeguarding the local community and environment.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is currently unspecified, highlighting the need for further preparedness measures. Despite its low hazard potential, ongoing risk management measures are essential to ensure the continued safety and functionality of Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 50-4 for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

GULLY 50 TROUBLESOME CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.8

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

71

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.