Warner Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Warner Dam, located in Wapello, Iowa, is a private-owned structure designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1989, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans a length of 395 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet. Situated on TR-PALESTINE CREEK, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, providing essential benefits for both wildlife and local communities.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Warner Dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has not been modified since its completion. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures remain unspecified. With its critical role in water management and conservation, Warner Dam represents a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and monitor for sustainable utilization and environmental protection in the region.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
395 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR- PALESTINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.03 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
15cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
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.
Warner Dam