East Fork Big Cr Watershed Site Z-2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

East Fork Big Cr Watershed Site Z-2 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Decatur County, Iowa, designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1990.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The primary purpose of this dam is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 13 acre-feet. The dam has a height of 21 feet and a length of 480 feet, serving the TR- ZADIE CREEK in the Rock Island District.

This low hazard potential dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The site is situated in a beautiful natural setting with a surface area of 3.1 acres and a drainage area of 0.18 square miles. While the dam is not currently rated for condition assessment, it has a moderate risk level (3) according to the data available.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, East Fork Big Cr Watershed Site Z-2 offers a fascinating example of local government-led flood risk reduction efforts in the heart of Iowa. With its unique design by USDA NRCS and compliance with state regulations, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation. The site's location in Decatur County, Iowa, showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining a healthy ecosystem and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR- ZADIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.1

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.