Wilkinson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Coffman Dam Sevcik Dam
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Wilkinson Dam, located in Marengo, Iowa, was completed in 2005 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial infrastructure for grade stabilization and water supply purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 320 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 28 acre-feet. It is situated on a tributary to Walnut Creek in Poweshiek County, Iowa, and has a low hazard potential with no reported condition assessment.
Despite being privately owned, Wilkinson Dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safe operation and compliance with regulations. The dam's primary purpose of grade stabilization underscores its role in managing water resources and mitigating potential erosion in the area. With a spillway width of 12 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 96 cubic feet per second, Wilkinson Dam is equipped to handle potential water flow events effectively.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wilkinson Dam represents a modern and functional structure that contributes to the sustainable management of water in the region. Its construction and operation align with best practices for dam safety and emergency preparedness, making it a valuable asset for the community and the environment. As part of the broader network of water infrastructure in Iowa, Wilkinson Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and ensuring the availability of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
2005 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Walnut Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Iowa River Near Belle Plaine
|
966cfs |
Walnut Creek Near Hartwick
|
13cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
Big Bear Creek At Ladora
|
70cfs |
Iowa River At Marengo
|
818cfs |
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.
Wilkinson Dam