Ottumwa is a hydroelectric facility located in Wapello, Iowa, along the Des Moines River. Built in 1960 and designed by Burns and McDonnell Engineering Co., this gravity dam stands at 16 feet tall and stretches 781 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 5000 acre-feet and a drainage area of 13,430 square miles, Ottumwa serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Ottumwa boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 603 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 135,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, Ottumwa is categorized as having a very high risk due to its critical importance in water resource management. Emergency action plans are in place, and the dam undergoes inspections every 3 years to ensure its safety and functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ottumwa represents a vital piece of infrastructure in Iowa's water management system. Its role in providing renewable energy, recreational opportunities, and water storage highlights the importance of sustainable development and resource utilization. As efforts continue to monitor and improve the dam's operations, Ottumwa remains a key player in the region's water resource management and climate resilience strategies.