Van Horn Wetland Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Van Horn Wetland Dam, located in Jefferson, Iowa, serves as a vital habitat for fish and wildlife in the area.
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Summary
Constructed in 1994 by the NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 545 feet, with a capacity to store 375 acre-feet of water. With a surface area of 21.3 acres and a drainage area of 1.5 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Van Horn Wetland Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose as a fish and wildlife pond, providing a safe haven for various species of plants and animals. With a moderate risk assessment of 3, the dam is under regular inspection to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
With its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, Van Horn Wetland Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and conservation efforts. As a key component of the local ecosystem, this dam serves as a valuable resource for both wildlife and the community, highlighting the crucial role that such structures play in maintaining the delicate balance between water resources and climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
545 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR- OTTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.3 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
375 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Raccoon River Near Jefferson
|
530cfs |
Middle Raccoon River Near Bayard
|
121cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
Des Moines River Near Stratford
|
1720cfs |
Des Moines River At Fort Dodge
|
1320cfs |
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.
Van Horn Wetland Dam