Greenbriar Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Greenbriar Dam, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by A LEO PELDS ENGINEERING.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, the dam serves multiple purposes, including recreation and flood control along the TR-Raccoon River. Standing at a height of 52 feet and stretching 650 feet in length, Greenbriar Dam has a storage capacity of 440 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 17.8 acres.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, the dam poses a significant hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment rating. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources regulates and inspects Greenbriar Dam regularly, ensuring its compliance with state standards and safety protocols. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and has a drainage area of 0.55 square miles.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Greenbriar Dam to be a vital structure in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding. With its strategic location and design, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance while providing recreational opportunities for the local community. As a privately owned entity, Greenbriar Dam represents a collaborative effort between the owner and state regulators to uphold safety standards and ensure the dam's longevity for future generations.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

TR-RACCOON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.8

Drainage Area

0.55

Nid Storage

440

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

52
       
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.