Bohlen Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bohlen Dam, located in Des Moines, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1985, this earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and spans a length of 362 feet, with a storage capacity of 319 acre-feet. The dam is located on TR-FLINT CR. river/stream and is owned and regulated by a private entity, with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Bohlen Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. However, the dam has been inspected, permitted, and regularly monitored by the state regulatory agency, Iowa DNR. The risk management measures for the dam are currently not specified.

Overall, Bohlen Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its multiple purposes, private ownership, and state regulation highlight the complex nature of managing water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions. With its moderate risk level and lack of a formal EAP, there is a clear opportunity for further assessment and improvement to ensure the safety and resilience of this important structure.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

362

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

TR-FLINT CR.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.4

Drainage Area

0.41

Nid Storage

319

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

52
       
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.