West Fork Big Cr Wtrshd Site B-32 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Located in Decatur County, Iowa, the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site B-32 is a local government-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risk along the TR- West Fork Big Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 2003, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and stretches 440 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.4 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity.
The primary purpose of the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site B-32 is flood risk reduction, serving as a critical infrastructure to protect surrounding areas from potential water damage. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam has not been officially rated for its condition, but it meets regulatory guidelines for emergency action planning and risk management measures. While it has not experienced any significant modifications or incidents since its completion, the structure remains an essential component of water resource management in the region.
As part of the Rock Island District, the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site B-32 plays a vital role in maintaining the water quality and flow of the surrounding environment. With its controlled spillway and soil foundation, the dam serves as a key element in the overall watershed management strategy for the area, ensuring sustainable water resource utilization and protection against potential flooding events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this site serves as a fascinating example of engineered solutions to mitigate natural hazards and preserve the ecological balance of the region.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR- WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
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 Cr Wtrshd Site B-32
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