Wilson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Wilson Lake Dam, located in Taylor County, Iowa, stands as a crucial structure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1967 by F W MANN & ASSOCIATES, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene oasis for locals and visitors alike. With a height of 29 feet and a length of 970 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 204 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 16.5 acres.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Wilson Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. While its hazard potential is rated as low, the risk assessment indicates a moderate level, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring and management. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, highlighting the need for proper maintenance and emergency preparedness in case of unexpected events.

As part of the Rock Island District, Wilson Lake Dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and community. With its picturesque setting along the TR-EAST 102 River, the dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also contributes to flood control and water supply management in the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to appreciate and support the efforts to maintain and safeguard this crucial infrastructure for the benefit of present and future generations.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

970

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-EAST 102 RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.5

Drainage Area

0.36

Nid Storage

204

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.