Gates Park Control Structure Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gates Park Control Structure, located in Black Hawk County, Iowa, along the Virden Creek, serves as a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches to a length of 970 feet, with a storage capacity of 195 acre-feet. Despite its significant hazard potential, the structure has been assessed as satisfactory and meets regulatory requirements for inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

The design and construction of Gates Park Control Structure were overseen by DAEN NCR, ensuring its effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a spillway type classified as uncontrolled. Even though the structure has not been modified in recent years, regular inspections and a five-year inspection frequency help maintain its operational readiness and ensure its safety for the surrounding community. With a moderate risk assessment rating and no emergency action plan in place, the structure continues to play a crucial role in managing floodwaters and protecting the local area from potential inundation events.

As an essential component of the flood control infrastructure along the Virden Creek, Gates Park Control Structure exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local and state agencies to safeguard against water-related hazards. With its strategic location and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management practices in Iowa. As climate change continues to impact water resources and extreme weather events, structures like Gates Park Control are essential for enhancing resilience and protecting communities from the increasing threat of floods.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

970

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

VIRDEN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

13.2

Nid Storage

195

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.