West Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

West Dam, located in Martensdale, Iowa, is a local government-owned structure with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond.


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Summary

Built in 2000 by NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches 375 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 346 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 84.7 acres and has a drainage area of 0.45 square miles.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, West Dam is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk rating. While it has not been rated for its condition, the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and regulated by state authorities. Situated on the TR-Clanton Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in fire protection, stock, and small fish pond activities in the area, making it a valuable resource for water conservation and climate enthusiasts.

As part of the Kansas City District, West Dam is a vital component of the local ecosystem, providing essential habitat for fish and wildlife. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam operates within state-enforced guidelines and is equipped to handle emergencies with a preparedness plan in place. Overall, West Dam serves as a significant asset for water management and environmental preservation efforts in Warren County, Iowa.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TR- CLANTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

84.7

Drainage Area

0.45

Nid Storage

346

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
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.