Depenning Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rankins Brothers Dam Vanderwerff Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Depenning Dam, located in Jasper County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1977.
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Summary
The dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection and providing a water source for stock or small fish ponds. With a height of 28 feet and a length of 309 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.4 acres. It is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality.
The dam's primary purpose and design as an earth dam make it a crucial asset for water resource management in the area. The low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment indicate that the dam is well-maintained and poses minimal risk to the surrounding community. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam's construction and operation have been overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, ensuring compliance with state regulations and safety standards. Overall, Depenning Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water conservation and management in the region, contributing to both environmental protection and community safety.
As a part of the Rock Island District, Depenning Dam plays a significant role in regulating the flow of Reasnor Creek and providing essential water resources for the local ecosystem. While it is primarily used for fire protection and irrigation purposes, the dam's construction and operation also support the conservation of small fish populations. With its earth dam design and soil foundation, the structure has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and remains in good condition. Moving forward, continued inspections and adherence to regulatory guidelines will be vital in ensuring the long-term functionality and safety of Depenning Dam for the benefit of both the environment and the community it serves.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
309 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-REASNOR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.26 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Skunk River At Colfax
|
211cfs |
Des Moines River Near Pella
|
2080cfs |
English Creek Near Knoxville
|
2cfs |
Indian Creek Near Mingo
|
79cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
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.
Depenning Dam