Winkler Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gleich Dam Loch Burns Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Winkler Dam, located in Ottumwa, Iowa, is a private dam constructed in 1963 on the TR-Des Moines River.
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Summary
With a height of 30 feet and a length of 500 feet, the dam primarily serves for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet. Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Winkler Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations.
Despite its low hazard potential, Winkler Dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, indicating the need for risk management measures. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, it meets the guidelines for emergency action plans. Although there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation contribute to its operational and structural stability.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts would find Winkler Dam an interesting site for its recreational value and environmental significance in the Wapello County area. The dam provides a unique opportunity for outdoor activities and water-based recreation, while also highlighting the importance of proper dam management and risk assessment in ensuring public safety and environmental protection in the region.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DES MOINES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.62 |
Nid Storage |
156 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
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.
Winkler Dam