Walker Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Walker Dam, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is a private water resource structure designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1985, this earth dam stands at 38 feet tall and spans 145 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and a low hazard potential. The dam is state-regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with inspections, permitting, and enforcement all handled at the state level.

Situated on the TR-Mississippi River, Walker Dam serves as a crucial water management tool for the community of Kingston, providing irrigation and recreational opportunities while also mitigating flood risks. Although the dam has not been rated for condition assessment, it is considered to have a moderate risk level. The structure features an uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, reflecting its simple yet effective design for managing water flow in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Walker Dam represents a noteworthy example of a privately-owned earth dam that plays a vital role in water conservation and management in Iowa. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for both agricultural and environmental purposes in the region.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

145

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR- MISSISSIPPI R.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.03

Nid Storage

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.