Owega Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Owega, Wsc8 Dam, located in Woodbury, Iowa, is a key water resource managed by the local government for the primary purpose of creating a fish and wildlife pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 2004 by the NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and spans 135 feet in length, with a capacity to store up to 548 acre-feet of water. The dam is situated on the TR- GARRETSON DITCH, and its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a crucial asset for the surrounding area.
Despite its relatively small size, Owega, Wsc8 Dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 38 acre-feet and a surface area of 35.6 acres. The dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement standards. With an uncontrolled spillway and a risk assessment rating of moderate, the dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem, providing habitat for fish and wildlife.
As an essential infrastructure for conservation and environmental protection, Owega, Wsc8 Dam is a valuable resource for water and climate enthusiasts. Its strategic location on the TR- GARRETSON DITCH, efficient design by the NRCS, and state-regulated management make it a model for sustainable water resource management. With its low hazard potential, moderate risk assessment, and capacity to store water for fish and wildlife, this earth dam is a critical asset for the community of Hornick and the surrounding area in Woodbury, Iowa.
Year Completed |
2004 |
Dam Length |
135 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
TR- GARRETSON DITCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
35.6 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
548 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Fork Ditch At Hornick
|
80cfs |
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
Omaha Cr At Homer
|
45cfs |
Missouri River At Decatur
|
14800cfs |
South Omaha Creek At Walthill
|
11cfs |
Missouri River At Sioux City
|
14400cfs |
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.
Owega, Wsc8 Dam