Pierce Cr. No. 2 Site J-4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
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Summary
No. 2 Site J-4, located in Essex, Iowa, is a local government-owned dam constructed in 1980 by the USDA NRCS, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, as well as flood risk reduction. The earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and stretches 550 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.9 acres. Despite its relatively low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been inspected or assessed for its condition, emergency action plan preparedness, or risk management measures.
The dam regulates the flow of the TR- E. NISHNABOTNA R. river or stream, serving as a crucial water resource infrastructure for the surrounding area. However, without recent inspections or condition assessments, there is uncertainty surrounding the structural integrity and safety of the dam. With the Iowa DNR as the state regulatory agency, it is essential for proper monitoring, maintenance, and emergency preparedness measures to be implemented to ensure the continued functionality and safety of the dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pierce Cr. No. 2 Site J-4 presents an intriguing case study in the management and maintenance of aging infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges. With its diverse purposes and strategic location, this dam highlights the importance of proactive risk assessment, regular inspections, and robust emergency response plans to ensure the resilience of water infrastructure in the changing climate landscape. The collaboration between local government, state agencies, and federal designers will be crucial in ensuring the long-term sustainability and safety of this essential water resource facility.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR- E. NISHNABOTNA R. |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.61 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
East Nishnabotna River At Red Oak
|
270cfs |
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
|
420cfs |
Nodaway River At Clarinda
|
30cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
605cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
25100cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Pierce Creek Rec Area
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Pioneer County Park Campgrounds
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Pioneer City Park
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Legion City Park
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Pierce Cr. No. 2 Site J-4