Woodhill Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Woodhill Lake Dam, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1988 by Bishop Engineering, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 810 feet, creating a surface area of 7.2 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 155 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR- Raccoon River and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Woodhill Lake Dam is a key structure in the area's water resource management. Despite not being currently rated for condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state authorities. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and while it does not have outlet gates or locks, it serves as a vital recreational and water storage asset for the community.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Woodhill Lake Dam an interesting subject for study and observation. Its location, design, and management offer valuable insights into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As a significant feature on the TR- Raccoon River, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow, providing recreational opportunities, and contributing to the overall environmental health of the region.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

810

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR- RACCON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.2

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

155

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.