Kempkes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Located in Madison County, Iowa, Kempkes Dam is a private earth dam completed in 1999 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 31 feet and a length of 465 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.7 acres, serving the TR- BULGER CREEK watershed. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level.

Managed by the NRCS, Kempkes Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing essential functions for fire protection and irrigation. The dam's design and construction adhere to state regulations, with regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and efficacy. Despite not having a rated condition assessment, the dam continues to fulfill its purpose effectively, demonstrating its importance in maintaining water resources and supporting local ecosystems.

With its controlled spillway and soil foundation, Kempkes Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in Iowa. As a key feature in the local landscape, this dam serves as a valuable asset for the community, offering recreational opportunities and contributing to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we recognize the significance of structures like Kempkes Dam in safeguarding our natural environment and ensuring the availability of water for future generations.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

465

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR- BULGER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.7

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.