Jefferson Park Watershed Site 10 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Jefferson Park Watershed Site 10 is a key flood risk reduction structure located in Ottumwa, Iowa.


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Summary

Constructed in 1983, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 1520 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 620 acre-feet. Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this site plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of flood events in the region.

With a high hazard potential, Jefferson Park Watershed Site 10 has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, ensuring its effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding. The dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. In the event of an emergency, the site is equipped with emergency action plans to guide response efforts and reduce risks to the community.

Located on the TR- Jefferson Park Ditch, this watershed site is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the SCS and the City of Ottumwa in designing and maintaining critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Jefferson Park Watershed Site 10 to be a fascinating example of proactive measures taken to protect communities and enhance environmental sustainability in Wapello County, Iowa.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

1520

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR- JEFFERSON PARK DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

1.57

Nid Storage

620

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.