Ames Basin #3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ames Basin #2 Ames Basin #4
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ames Basin #3 is a local government-owned structure in Ames, Iowa, designed for flood risk reduction along the TR- SKUNK R.
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Summary
river. Completed in 1985, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 680 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet. Despite its small size, the dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to ensure its satisfactory condition.
Located in Story County, Iowa, Ames Basin #3 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. The dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the structure is deemed to have a manageable level of risk, although regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure its effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flooding events.
As part of the Rock Island District, Ames Basin #3 is a vital component of the local flood control infrastructure, demonstrating the collaborative efforts between local and state agencies to protect against water-related hazards. With its strategic location and design, this dam serves as a critical asset in enhancing the resilience of the region to climate-related challenges, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SKUNK R. |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.63 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Ames Basin #3