Beaver Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Findley Dam Cook Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Beaver Lake Dam, located in Dallas County, Iowa, is a state-owned structure designed by Butts Engineering that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1990, stands at 43 feet tall and spans 666 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 696 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Bear Creek and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Despite its significant hazard potential, Beaver Lake Dam maintains a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2016. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 4 feet wide, helps manage water levels and prevent overflows during periods of high discharge. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a risk level of 3, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.
Beaver Lake Dam, with its picturesque surroundings and recreational opportunities, serves as a vital water resource for the local community. Its strategic location in Van Meter, Iowa, makes it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the beauty and functionality of this earth-type dam.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
666 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
34 |
Drainage Area |
1.61 |
Nid Storage |
696 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
43 |
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.
Beaver Lake Dam