Jenkins Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Knutsen Dam Beener Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Jenkins Dam, located in Red Rock Reservoir in Warren County, Iowa, was completed in 1963 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
This private dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a height of 34 feet and a length of 654 feet, Jenkins Dam has a storage capacity of 219 acre-feet and a surface area of 16 acres, providing essential water resources for the local area.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating, Jenkins Dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment and is currently not rated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is constructed primarily of earth and soil materials. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam plays a crucial role in water management for the TR-Broadhorn Creek and surrounding watershed. With its historical significance and importance for local water resources, Jenkins Dam remains a key feature in the Kansas City District's water infrastructure.
As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Jenkins Dam offers insight into the historical development and management of water infrastructure in Iowa. With its unique design and multi-purpose functionality, this privately owned structure highlights the intersection of human needs for water management, environmental conservation, and regulatory oversight. As discussions around climate change and water scarcity continue to evolve, Jenkins Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
654 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BROADHORN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.58 |
Nid Storage |
219 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Middle River Near Indianola
|
48cfs |
South River Near Ackworth
|
18cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Raccoon River At 63rd Street At Des Moines
|
587cfs |
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.
Jenkins Dam