Fountain Hills Dam #1, located in Marion County, Iowa, is a private dam designed by Garden & Associates and completed in 2000.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a length of 325 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is categorized as "Other," with significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Fountain Hills Dam #1 plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of Thunder Creek, a tributary in the area. Despite not having any associated structures or locks, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region. Its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation are key components of its design, ensuring the safety and stability of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fountain Hills Dam #1 offers a fascinating case study in dam construction and management. With its strategic location in Pella, Iowa, and its impact on the local drainage area and surface water resources, this dam exemplifies the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship. As climate change continues to pose challenges for water infrastructure, understanding the design, function, and risk factors of dams like Fountain Hills Dam #1 is essential for sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR- THUNDER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Des Moines River Near Pella
|
2080cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
English Creek Near Knoxville
|
2cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
White Breast Creek Near Dallas
|
5cfs |