Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site M-3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Mills County, Iowa, the Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site M-3 is a grade stabilization dam designed by SHUCK - BRITSON ENGINEERS and completed in 1999.


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Summary

This earth dam spans 520 feet in length and stands at a height of 34 feet, with a storage capacity of 430 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is to reduce flood risk and stabilize the grade along Waubonsie Creek.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this structure is state-regulated and subject to inspection, enforcement, and permitting requirements. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site M-3 indicates a moderate level of risk (3). With a drainage area of 9.6 square miles and a surface area of 21.7 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Situated in the city of Bartlett, Iowa, this watershed site is part of the larger conservation efforts along Waubonsie Creek. As a key component in the region's water resource management system, the dam not only helps mitigate flood risks but also contributes to the overall sustainability and resilience of the local ecosystem. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Waubonsie Creek Watershed Site M-3 to be an essential piece of infrastructure in the ongoing effort to protect and preserve the natural environment in Mills County.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

WAUBONSIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21.7

Drainage Area

9.6

Nid Storage

430

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.