Batesole Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sanford Dam Middleton Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Batesole Dam, located in NORWALK, Iowa, is a privately owned structure built in 1993 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) with a primary purpose of fire protection and creating a stock or small fish pond.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 455 feet, providing a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 4.9 acres. It is situated on TR- MIDDLE CREEK and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Despite its low hazard potential, Batesole Dam is classified as having a moderate risk level (3) and is deemed to be in a "Not Rated" condition according to the latest assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and has no outlet gates or associated structures. While it has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, the structure is subject to state regulation and jurisdiction, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Batesole Dam presents an interesting case study in dam infrastructure management and risk assessment. With its unique design and purpose, the dam offers insights into the challenges and considerations involved in balancing water resource utilization and environmental conservation. As a privately owned facility with state oversight, Batesole Dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts required to ensure the safety and sustainability of water management practices in Iowa and beyond.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
455 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR- MIDDLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.17 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Raccoon River At 63rd Street At Des Moines
|
587cfs |
Middle River Near Indianola
|
48cfs |
Walnut Creek At Des Moines
|
10cfs |
Raccoon River At Fleur Drive
|
1200cfs |
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.
Batesole Dam
Walnut Woods Drive West Des Moines