Mill Picayune Watershed Site S-1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Harrison County, Iowa, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site S-1 is a local government-owned dam designed by USDA NRCS for multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and flood risk reduction.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans a length of 630 feet, with a storage capacity of 215 acre-feet. Situated on TR- South Picayune Creek, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

With a drainage area of 0.81 square miles, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site S-1 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, this dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place and lacks certain risk management measures. As part of the state-regulated infrastructure, the site is subject to inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), ensuring its compliance with safety standards and regulations.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management of small-scale water structures, the Mill Picayune Watershed Site S-1 offers a compelling case study. From its multi-purpose design to its role in flood risk reduction, this dam exemplifies the importance of local government initiatives in safeguarding communities against water-related hazards. With a focus on sustainability and compliance with state regulations, this site serves as a valuable asset in the broader ecosystem of water resource management in Iowa.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR- SOUTH PICAYUNE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.81

Nid Storage

215

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.