Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 48-3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 48-3, located in Audubon County, Iowa, is a critical water resource managed by the local government for fire protection, livestock use, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1982 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 680 feet, with a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet. The reservoir covers 5.8 acres and serves a drainage area of 0.46 square miles, offering flood risk reduction benefits to the surrounding area.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 48-3 has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. While the dam is currently in a not-rated condition, regular inspections and maintenance ensure its continued functionality. With a spillway type of uncontrolled, this site is equipped to handle potential overflow events, although no maximum discharge rate is specified. Overall, this watershed site plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region, providing essential services for both human and ecological needs.

As a key feature in the Rock Island District, Troublesome Cr Watershed Site 48-3 contributes to the overall water infrastructure in the area. With state regulation, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam ensures safety and compliance standards are met. While the dam's emergency action plan status is unclear, its strategic location and purposeful design underscore its importance in maintaining water quality, controlling flooding, and supporting local ecosystems. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this site offers a fascinating case study in sustainable water management practices and the intersection of human development with natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR- FOUR MILE CR.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.8

Drainage Area

0.46

Nid Storage

117

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.