Pender Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ayers Dam Wildwood Hill Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Pender Dam, located in Martensdale, Iowa, on the TR-Clanton Creek, was completed in 1964 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 460 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond usage, serving as a vital resource for the local community.
Managed by a private owner, Pender Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. Despite a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment level, the condition of the dam is currently not rated, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. With its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, Pender Dam remains a significant water resource in the region for both agricultural and recreational purposes.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pender Dam presents a unique opportunity to study the intersection of infrastructure, environmental management, and community resilience. As a part of the Kansas City District, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Pender Dam continues to be a focal point for understanding the interconnectedness of water resources and climate dynamics in the Midwest.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR- CLANTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Middle River Near Indianola
|
48cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
South River Near Ackworth
|
18cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Raccoon River At 63rd Street At Des Moines
|
587cfs |
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.
Pender Dam