Jensen Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Jensen Dam, located in Carlisle, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans a length of 580 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality.
Situated on the TR- North River, Jensen Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a surface area of 5.1 acres and a drainage area of 0.25 square miles. While the dam has a low hazard potential, it is deemed to have a moderate risk level, signaling the importance of ongoing risk management measures. Despite not being rated for its condition, Jensen Dam remains a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the overall resilience of the region in the face of climate variability and changing water demands.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Jensen Dam is essential for appreciating the complex interactions between human activities and natural systems. With its historical importance, regulatory oversight, and ongoing risk management efforts, Jensen Dam stands as a testament to the critical role that infrastructure plays in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability in the face of evolving challenges.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR- NORTH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.25 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Middle Raccoon River Near Bayard
|
121cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Jefferson
|
530cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
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.
Jensen Dam