Jenkins Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Jenkins Dam, located in Marion, Iowa, was completed in 1963 by the USDA NRCS and serves primarily for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at 27 feet high and spans 379 feet, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.2 acres. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition, and its last inspection dates back to 1967.

Managed by a private owner, Jenkins Dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and falls under state jurisdiction, with permitting, inspections, and enforcement carried out by state agencies. The dam, situated along the TR-TRACY CREEK river/stream, plays a crucial role in water resource management and conservation efforts in the region. While its spillway is uncontrolled and there are no outlet gates, the dam serves as a vital asset for the local community and surrounding areas for various purposes.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and structural details of Jenkins Dam, which continues to play a key role in the region's water management infrastructure. With its unique design and purpose, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource practices and the collaboration between public and private entities in safeguarding against potential risks and ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

379

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-TRACY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.2

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.