Central Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Central Park Lake Dam, located in Center Junction, Iowa, is a vital structure managed by the local government for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 665 feet, creating a storage capacity of 481 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Mineral Creek, within the Jones County area, offering a serene 25-acre surface area for visitors to enjoy water-based activities.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Central Park Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as moderate risk level 3, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management and assessment. While the dam has not been formally assessed for its condition, it remains open to the public for recreational use, with its uncontrolled spillway type offering additional safety measures.

With its scenic location and role in providing recreational opportunities, Central Park Lake Dam serves as a significant landmark within the community. Supported by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam symbolizes the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship, showcasing the importance of water resource management in mitigating climate impacts. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, exploring the history and features of Central Park Lake Dam offers an intriguing glimpse into the intersection of nature and infrastructure in Iowa's landscape.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

665

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-MINERAL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Drainage Area

0.62

Nid Storage

481

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.