Red Rock Dam - Avon Station Remedial Works Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

The Red Rock Dam - Avon Station Remedial Works in Des Moines, Iowa, is a federal project managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to reduce flood risk in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this concrete dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a structural height of 11 feet. The dam is designed to manage water levels in the Des Moines River and its associated drainage area, helping to mitigate the potential for flooding in the region.

With a high hazard potential, the US Army Corps of Engineers regularly monitors and manages the dam's condition to address all types of flood risks. Emergency action plans are in place, and the agency works closely with local emergency managers and the public to ensure readiness in the event of a dam-related emergency. Maintenance and repairs are conducted as needed to uphold the dam's structural integrity and functionality. As severe weather events can impact water levels, the dam plays a crucial role in water management to prevent overwhelming issues and maintain the safety of surrounding areas.

Overall, the Red Rock Dam - Avon Station Remedial Works serves as a vital infrastructure piece in flood risk reduction efforts in Des Moines, Iowa. With a focus on risk management and preparedness, the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures the dam's effectiveness in safeguarding the community from potential flooding events.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

28561

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

DES MOINES

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Hydraulic Height

12

Structural Height

11

Outlet Gates

None - 0, Vertical Lift - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.