West Fork Big Cr Wtrshd Site S-6 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Located in Decatur, Iowa, the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site S-6 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 21 feet and spans 584 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 139 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Shain Creek, this site plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing flood risk in the area.
Managed by the Iowa DNR, this state-regulated structure is inspected, permitted, and enforced to ensure its functionality and safety. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site S-6 has been designated as a key player in water resource management in the region. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location and purpose of this site in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this structure serves as a vital component in the overall water management system of the area. Its earth dam design, controlled by an uncontrolled spillway, showcases the innovative engineering behind its construction. As a noteworthy addition to the water infrastructure in Iowa, the West Fork Big Creek Watershed Site S-6 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government and federal agencies in safeguarding the community from water-related risks.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
584 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SHAIN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.47 |
Nid Storage |
139 |
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 S-6