Lake Keomah Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Keomah Silt Dam Van Donselar Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Keomah Dam, located in Mahaska, Iowa, is a state-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1935 by the Iowa Conservation Commission, this earth dam stands at a height of 42 feet and stretches 1100 feet in length across the TR-South Skunk River. With a normal storage capacity of 802 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1710 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water resource management and recreational opportunities for the local community.
The dam, classified as having a significant hazard potential but in satisfactory condition, is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. With a spillway width of 60 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, Lake Keomah Dam is designed to handle potential flood events. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality. As a key feature in the region's water infrastructure, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.
As a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates, Lake Keomah Dam offers not only recreational opportunities but also a glimpse into the intersection of water resource management and environmental stewardship. With its rich history and role in supporting the local ecosystem, the dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance the needs of human development with the preservation of natural resources in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH SKUNK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
82 |
Drainage Area |
3.1 |
Nid Storage |
1710 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Des Moines River Near Pella
|
2130cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Keomah State Park
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Lake Keomah State Park Campground
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Glendale Access
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Quercus Wilderness Area
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Eveland Access
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Union Mills Access
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Lake Keomah Dam