Waubonsie Cr. Watershed Site 3-3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site 3-3 is a local government-owned structure in Mills, Iowa, designed by the USDA NRCS to address flood risk reduction along Mc Pherron Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1993, this earth dam stands at 49 feet high and spans 487 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1144 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.42 square miles. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition based on the latest assessment in July 2020.
Located in Bartlett, Iowa, this site not only serves for flood risk reduction but also offers fire protection and can be utilized as a stock or small fish pond. With its primary purpose of safeguarding the surrounding area from potential inundation, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The structure's moderate risk level is continuously monitored with a regular inspection frequency of five years, ensuring its effectiveness in mitigating potential threats and maintaining community safety.
Managed by the Iowa DNR, Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site 3-3 stands as a testament to collaborative efforts in water management, showcasing how infrastructure like this earth dam plays a vital role in safeguarding communities and natural resources from the impacts of climate change. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data behind this structure offers valuable insights into the importance of proactive planning and maintenance in ensuring the resilience of our water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
487 |
Dam Height |
49 |
River Or Stream |
MC PHERRON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
39.8 |
Drainage Area |
3.42 |
Nid Storage |
1144 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
49 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
|
420cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
25100cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
605cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
6300cfs |
East Nishnabotna River At Red Oak
|
270cfs |
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.
Waubonsie Cr. Watershed Site 3-3
US 34;US 275 Mills County