Owens Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Axtell Dam Harsha Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Owens Dam, located in Jasper County, Iowa, along the North Skunk River, was completed in 1980 with a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond.
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Summary
The dam, owned by a private entity, stands at 33 feet high and spans 350 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Managed by the USDA NRCS, Owens Dam is constructed of earth and rests on a soil foundation, serving as a vital water resource for the local community. With a surface area of 3.3 acres and a drainage area of 0.2 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in water storage and management in the region. While its spillway is uncontrolled, the dam poses a moderate risk and is currently rated as "not assessed" in terms of its condition, making regular inspections and risk assessments essential for its continued operation.
Despite its relatively small size and low hazard potential, Owens Dam plays a significant role in providing water resources for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the area. With its location in a private ownership setting, the dam's management by the USDA NRCS ensures its compliance with state regulations and safety standards. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is essential to monitor and assess the condition of Owens Dam to ensure its continued functionality for the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH SKUNK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Skunk River At Colfax
|
211cfs |
Indian Creek Near Mingo
|
79cfs |
Timber Creek Near Marshalltown
|
37cfs |
Iowa River At Marshalltown
|
1040cfs |
Des Moines River Near Pella
|
2080cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Kellogg RV Park
|
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Mariposa Co Park
|
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Rock Creek State Park
|
Owens Dam