Waubonsie Creek Watershed Sites M-5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Mills County, Iowa, the Waubonsie Creek Watershed Sites M-5 is a vital water resource managed by the local government with assistance from the USDA NRCS.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1999, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, flood risk reduction, and more. With a dam height of 30 feet and a drainage area of 3.44 square miles, this structure provides a storage capacity of 443 acre-feet for the surrounding area.

The Waubonsie Creek Watershed Sites M-5 is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks in the region. Despite not having a condition rating, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively and contributes to the overall water management efforts in the area.

As part of the Omaha District, this watershed site is an essential component of the local ecosystem and contributes to the sustainable use of water resources in the region. With its strategic location along the Waubonsie Creek, this structure not only provides water storage but also supports various environmental and recreational activities in the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of structures like the Waubonsie Creek Watershed Sites M-5 are essential for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

WAUBONSIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.1

Drainage Area

3.44

Nid Storage

443

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.