Thirty-Fifth Street Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Thirty-Fifth Street Dam, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a significant earth dam standing at a height of 23 feet and stretching 530 feet in length.


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Summary

Completed in 1992, this dam serves a vital purpose in managing the flow of the TR-Jordan Creek, with a normal storage capacity of 25 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, measuring 16 feet in width, is uncontrolled, adding to the unique hydraulic features of the structure.

Managed by the local government, Thirty-Fifth Street Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam poses a significant hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose efficiently, showcasing the expertise of its designer, Shive-Hattery Engineers.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thirty-Fifth Street Dam offers a fascinating insight into the intricate infrastructure that supports water management in Iowa. Its location along the TR-Jordan Creek and its role in flood control highlight the crucial balance between human development and environmental conservation. As discussions around climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, the role of dams like Thirty-Fifth Street Dam becomes increasingly vital in ensuring sustainable practices for future generations.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-JORDAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.6

Drainage Area

0.74

Nid Storage

95

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.