West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site W-20 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site W-20, located in Ringgold County, Iowa, is a flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2000.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at 22 feet high, with a length of 520 feet and a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving the local community and ecosystem by protecting against potential water-related hazards.
Managed by the Iowa DNR, this site is state-regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and effectiveness. Despite being rated as low hazard potential and not yet assessed for condition, it plays a crucial role in managing the watershed's water resources. With a moderate risk assessment score, there is a need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to maintain its functionality and safety for the surrounding area.
As part of the TR-Wolf Creek watershed, West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site W-20 contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region. With its location in a critical drainage area and its significance for flood risk reduction, this structure highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in mitigating climate-related challenges and protecting communities from potential disasters.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
520 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR- WOLF CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.18 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site W-20