West Fork Big Cr Wtrshd Site B-182 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Located in Decatur County, Iowa, the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site B-182 is a flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2003.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 456 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this structure is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency, ensuring its functionality and safety. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site B-182 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. As a water resource and climate enthusiast, understanding the importance of infrastructure like this helps to appreciate the efforts put into managing and protecting our natural resources.
Situated in a strategic location within the watershed, this dam serves as a key component in the overall water management system of the area. With its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site B-182 is a testament to the collaboration between local government and federal agencies in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events. As a site to study and appreciate the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, this structure stands as a symbol of proactive measures taken to address the challenges posed by a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
456 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR- WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.17 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
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 Cr Wtrshd Site B-182