Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 16 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 16 in Iowa, managed by the local government, is a vital water resource with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, and flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Constructed in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 570 feet, with a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. Situated along the TR- S. Wyacondah River, the dam covers a surface area of 12.1 acres and serves a drainage area of 0.77 square miles.
Owned and regulated by the Iowa DNR, this watershed site boasts a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation. Despite not having a designated emergency action plan, the site meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With its strategic location in the Davis County of Iowa, Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 16 plays a crucial role in water management and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 16 as a key infrastructure for water storage, flood risk reduction, and ecological preservation. Managed by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in the state of Iowa. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the site provides a valuable resource for fire protection, livestock, and aquatic habitats, while adhering to state regulatory standards and oversight by the Iowa DNR.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
570 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR- S. WYACONDAH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.77 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
14cfs |
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.
Big Wyacondah Watershed Site 16