Arnold Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Arnold Lake Dam, located in Ames, Iowa, was completed in 1964 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, is a private-owned earth dam standing at 36 feet high and stretching 330 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.5 acres, with a drainage area of 0.15 square miles.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Arnold Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state. The dam poses a low hazard potential and is currently rated as 'Not Rated' in terms of its condition assessment. While the dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, it has a moderate risk classification, indicating a need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure its safety and longevity.
Situated along the TR-Skunk River, Arnold Lake Dam not only plays a crucial role in water resource management but also provides recreational opportunities for the local community. As an enthusiast in water resources and climate, exploring the design, construction, and maintenance of Arnold Lake Dam can offer valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental protection, and public safety in the face of changing climate dynamics.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SKUNK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.15 |
Nid Storage |
49 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Skunk River Near Ames
|
92cfs |
Squaw Creek At Ames
|
53cfs |
South Skunk River Below Squaw Creek Near Ames
|
130cfs |
Indian Creek Near Mingo
|
79cfs |
Fourmile Creek Near Ankeny
|
9cfs |
Des Moines River Near Stratford
|
1720cfs |
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.
Arnold Lake Dam