West Lake Dam (Mahaska Co) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
West Lake Dam in Mahaska County, Iowa, stands as a testament to engineering excellence, with its construction completed in 1989 by McClure Engineering.
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Summary
Serving a primary purpose of recreation, this private dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and boasts a height of 32 feet and a length of 665 feet. The dam provides a storage capacity of 496 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 214 acre-feet and a surface area of 25.8 acres.
Situated on Tr-Muchakinock Creek, West Lake Dam is designated as a significant hazard potential structure, yet it maintains a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2017. With its uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is subject to inspections every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's location in Mahaska County, Iowa, near the city of Beacon, offers water resource and climate enthusiasts a unique opportunity to appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes.
As enthusiasts explore the West Lake Dam site, they can marvel at the dam's earth construction and soil foundation, designed to enhance the recreational experience while ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. With its close proximity to Rock Island District and under the jurisdiction of the Iowa DNR, West Lake Dam is a vital part of the local water management system. By understanding the dam's design, purpose, and regulatory oversight, enthusiasts can gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship in maintaining water resources in Mahaska County.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
665 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MUCHAKINOCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25.8 |
Drainage Area |
1.04 |
Nid Storage |
496 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
Des Moines River Near Pella
|
2080cfs |
English Creek Near Knoxville
|
2cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Eveland Access
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Glendale Access
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Quercus Wilderness Area
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Cedar Creek Access
|
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Lake Keomah State Park Campground
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Lake Keomah State Park
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West Lake Dam (Mahaska Co)