Jenkins Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Il & Ic Dam Beauchamp Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Jenkins Dam, located in Skunk River, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1965, the dam stands at 18 feet high and spans 420 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.8 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The dam's primary purpose of fire protection and water storage for livestock makes it a vital resource for the local community. With a drainage area of 0.38 square miles, Jenkins Dam contributes to the management of water resources in the area, providing a reliable water source for agricultural and recreational activities. The dam's moderate risk assessment indicates the need for ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of the surrounding environment and residents.
As a key feature in the local water infrastructure, Jenkins Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality and availability in the region. With its controlled spillway and soil foundation, the dam serves as a dependable structure for water storage and flood control along TR-Big Cedar Creek. Its construction and operation by the Natural Resources Conservation Service demonstrate a commitment to sustainable water management practices, further highlighting the importance of Jenkins Dam in preserving water resources and supporting community needs in Jefferson County, Iowa.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.38 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
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