Yellowbanks Dam, located on the Des Moines River in Polk, Iowa, was completed in 1986 primarily for recreational purposes. The dam is owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a height of 41 feet and a length of 500 feet, the earth dam provides a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Yellowbanks Dam is classified as having a moderate risk level (3). The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and a drainage area of 0.34 square miles. The last inspection conducted in December 2015 confirmed its satisfactory condition, with no significant issues reported. While the dam does not have outlet gates or associated structures, it remains a key feature for recreational activities in the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to experience the beauty of the Des Moines River.