Christensen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Humboldt Milldam Erickson Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Christensen Dam, located in Humboldt, Iowa, along the TR- W Fork Des Moines River, was completed in 1985 with the primary purpose of providing fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond.
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Summary
This private dam, standing at a height of 32 feet and spanning 226 feet in length, has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition remains unrated, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Christensen Dam is regulated by state authorities and subject to regular inspections and enforcement. The dam, constructed primarily of earth with a soil foundation, features an uncontrolled spillway type and is designated for fire protection purposes. With a drainage area of 0.43 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the local community and surrounding area from potential water-related hazards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Christensen Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water management and conservation in the region. Its strategic location and design contribute to the overall resilience of the ecosystem, providing essential services such as fire protection and water storage. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, the dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between government agencies and private entities to ensure sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation measures in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
226 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR- W FORK DES MOINES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.43 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Humboldt
|
401cfs |
East Fork Des Moines River At Dakota City
|
255cfs |
Des Moines River At Fort Dodge
|
1320cfs |
Boone River Near Webster City
|
232cfs |
Iowa River Near Rowan
|
195cfs |
Des Moines River Near Stratford
|
1720cfs |
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.
Christensen Dam