Walker Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Located in Indianola, Iowa, the Walker Dam is a privately owned structure designed by the NRCS for fire protection and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1997, this earth dam stands at 32 feet high and spans a length of 443 feet, with a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet. Situated on the TR- South River, the dam serves as a vital resource for the community, offering a surface area of 4 acres for recreational activities and irrigation purposes.

Operated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Walker Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure public safety and environmental compliance. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is continuously monitored for any potential risks or maintenance needs. Despite its small size, the Walker Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region, demonstrating the importance of even modest infrastructure in safeguarding communities against water-related challenges.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like the Walker Dam are essential for mitigating risks and ensuring water security for future generations. With a focus on sustainability and safety, the dam serves as a beacon of resilience in the face of a changing climate, highlighting the importance of proactive management and investment in water infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Walker Dam stands as a testament to the critical role that small-scale structures play in supporting resilient communities and ecosystems in the face of uncertainty.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

443

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR- SOUTH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.09

Nid Storage

49

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.