East Fork Big Cr Watershed Site E-18 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

East Fork Big Cr Watershed Site E-18 is a crucial infrastructure owned by the local government in Decatur, Iowa, designed by USDA NRCS, and regulated by the Iowa DNR.


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Summary

This flood risk reduction dam, completed in 1990, stands at 23 feet high and spans 510 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet. Situated along the TR- East Fork Big Creek, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, in addition to flood risk reduction.

Despite its low hazard potential, the condition of East Fork Big Cr Watershed Site E-18 is currently not rated. With a moderate risk assessment rating, this site demonstrates the importance of ongoing inspection, maintenance, and emergency preparedness. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks specific risk management measures, its presence plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, this site offers a compelling example of the intersection between infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR- EAST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Drainage Area

0.36

Nid Storage

108

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.