Troublesome Creek Watershed Site 85-2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Troublesome Creek Watershed Site 85-2, located in Audubon, Iowa, is a Grade Stabilization structure designed by USDA NRCS to manage water flow and prevent erosion in the Tr- East Nishnabotna River.


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Summary

Completed in 2003, this Earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans 548 feet, with a storage capacity of 204 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the structure has not been rated for its condition, and there is no information on its inspection frequency or emergency preparedness.

Maintained by the Iowa DNR, Troublesome Creek Watershed Site 85-2 serves a primary purpose of Grade Stabilization, with a focus on soil foundations and uncontrolled spillways. The dam's moderate risk level suggests a need for ongoing risk management measures, although specific details on these measures are not provided in the data. With a drainage area of 0.78 square miles and a surface area of 7.1 acres, this structure plays a crucial role in water resource management within the watershed, emphasizing the importance of its continued monitoring and upkeep in the face of changing climate conditions.

Overall, Troublesome Creek Watershed Site 85-2 stands as a vital component of water infrastructure in Brayton, Iowa, contributing to the conservation and protection of the local environment. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like this Grade Stabilization dam play a crucial role in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of watersheds. By staying informed about its condition, risk assessment, and management measures, water resource and climate enthusiasts can support efforts to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of Troublesome Creek Watershed Site 85-2 for years to come.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

548

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

Tr- East Nishnabotna River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.1

Drainage Area

0.78

Nid Storage

204

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.