West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site B-42 in Decatur County, Iowa, is a flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS. Completed in 1996, this earth dam stands at 25 feet tall and spans 480 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this structure is flood risk reduction, serving as a critical asset in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation.

With a drainage area of 0.35 square miles, the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site B-42 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, this structure has not been inspected recently, and its emergency preparedness measures, including the existence of an Emergency Action Plan, are unclear. As an essential component of water resource management in the region, ensuring the safety and functionality of this dam is paramount for mitigating potential risks and protecting downstream communities and ecosystems.

Located in the Rock Island District, this structure on TR- WEST FORK BIG CREEK plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the water system in the area. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns, the importance of effective water resource management and infrastructure maintenance at sites like West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site B-42 cannot be overstated. Collaboration between local, state, and federal agencies is essential in ensuring the resilience of these critical assets in the face of evolving environmental challenges.