Vander Molen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Van Zante Dam Lynnville Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Vander Molen Dam, located in Jasper County, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1980 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
With a height of 25 feet and a length of 500 feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond. It has a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 32 acre-feet across its 4.4-acre surface area.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Vander Molen Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam's condition has not been rated, its risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with the structure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Vander Molen Dam for its role in providing fire protection and supporting local ecosystems. The dam's design and construction by the USDA NRCS ensure its longevity and functionality for years to come. As a key feature on the TR-North Skunk River, the dam contributes to water management efforts in the region, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure in maintaining a healthy environment.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH SKUNK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River Near Pella
|
2130cfs |
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
English Creek Near Knoxville
|
2cfs |
South Skunk River At Colfax
|
211cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
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.
Vander Molen Dam