English Bench Watershed Site 8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

English Bench Watershed Site 8 is a vital water resource site located in Allamakee, Iowa, near the Mississippi River.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the local government and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this site serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management, as well as flood risk reduction. The dam, completed in 1971, is an earth structure with a height of 34 feet and a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet, offering essential water management for the surrounding area.

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this site is designed to handle low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment of 3. With a drainage area of 0.17 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in controlling water flow and minimizing potential risks. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the watershed and local community.

With a focus on water management and climate resilience, English Bench Watershed Site 8 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of various agencies and stakeholders in protecting and preserving valuable water resources. As a key component in the region's flood risk reduction strategy, this site serves as a model for sustainable water management practices, highlighting the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure the long-term viability of our water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR- UPPER IOWA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.17

Nid Storage

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.