Little Whiskey Subwatershed Site M-1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Woodbury County, Iowa, the Little Whiskey Subwatershed Site M-1 is a local government-owned dam designed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 1984, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans a length of 650 feet, providing flood risk reduction and other purposes for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 162 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.41 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, this dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the dam is deemed to have a moderate risk level. With no condition assessment rating available, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are yet to be fully evaluated. Overall, the Little Whiskey Subwatershed Site M-1 serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the area.

Situated in Luton, Iowa, along the TR- Little Whiskey Creek, this dam not only helps in flood risk reduction but also contributes to the overall environmental health of the region. As a part of the Omaha District, the dam's primary purpose and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the collaborative efforts of various agencies in safeguarding water resources and promoting sustainable development. With its robust construction and strategic location, the Little Whiskey Subwatershed Site M-1 stands as a testament to the importance of effective water management practices in combating the challenges posed by climate change.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

TR- LITTLE WHISKEY CR.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

1.41

Nid Storage

162

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.