Se Des Moines Stormwater Det. Dam #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Se Des Moines Stormwater Detention Dam #5, located in Des Moines, Iowa, was completed in 1999 by Snyder & Associates as a local government initiative for flood risk reduction along the TR- YEADER CREEK.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 650 feet, with a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a vital infrastructure for managing stormwater runoff in the area.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Se Des Moines Stormwater Detention Dam #5 has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2010. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regularly inspected, regulated, and permitted by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Although there have been no modifications or emergency action plans prepared for the dam, it plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community from potential flooding events.

As part of the Rock Island District, Se Des Moines Stormwater Detention Dam #5 contributes to the overall water resource management in Polk County, Iowa. With its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, the dam provides essential flood protection for the surrounding area and helps to mitigate the risk of inundation during heavy rainfall events. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of this infrastructure in maintaining the resilience and sustainability of the local watershed.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR- YEADER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.2

Drainage Area

1.37

Nid Storage

103

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.