Jefferson Park Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chappel Studio Pond Dam Il & Ic Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Jefferson County, Iowa, the Jefferson Park Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Built in 1995 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts in the area. With a height of 28 feet and a length of 300 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet, providing essential water management for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Jefferson Park Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition, signaling the need for further evaluation and maintenance. While its spillway remains uncontrolled, the dam continues to play a critical role in flood control and water regulation along the TR-Cedar Creek.
As climate change intensifies, the importance of sustainable water resource management becomes increasingly apparent. The Jefferson Park Dam, with its strategic location and purposeful design, serves as a beacon of hope for communities seeking to adapt to a changing climate. By prioritizing safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, showcasing the vital role that infrastructure plays in safeguarding our shared future.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR- CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.08 |
Nid Storage |
45 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
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.
Jefferson Park Dam