Ferguson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Ferguson Dam, located in Polk County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans a length of 400 feet. With a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, the dam primarily holds a normal storage of 45 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres, serving as a vital resource in the region.

Managed and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Ferguson Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement by state authorities ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam's spillway type and design contribute to mitigating potential risks and maintaining its functionality within the Des Moines River watershed.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Ferguson Dam for its role in water management, conservation, and supporting local ecosystems. With its strategic location in the Red Rock Reservoir area and its contribution to the overall hydrology of the region, Ferguson Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable dam infrastructure in balancing the needs of both human and natural communities in Iowa.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-DES MOINES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

96

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.