Lenth Wetland Dam (Upper Pool) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Van Buren, Iowa, the Lenth Wetland Dam (Upper Pool) is a state-owned structure with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Built in 2000 by the NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 9 feet and spans a length of 3675 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 213 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.09 square miles, the dam provides essential habitat for fish and wildlife in the area.

The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Managed by the Iowa DNR, the Lenth Wetland Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow along the TR-FOX RIVER, ultimately benefiting the surrounding ecosystem. Despite not being currently rated for condition assessment, the dam remains a key feature in the region's water management infrastructure, ensuring the conservation of natural resources and enhancing biodiversity.

As part of the Kansas City District, the Lenth Wetland Dam (Upper Pool) stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between state and federal agencies in promoting sustainable water management practices. With its strategic location near the Mississippi River and its vital role in supporting fish and wildlife populations, this dam serves as a model for effective ecosystem conservation and climate resilience initiatives in the region.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

3675

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TR- FOX RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

115.8

Drainage Area

1.09

Nid Storage

641

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.