Jordan Creek Mall - Northwest Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

The Jordan Creek Mall - Northwest Dam is a private earth dam located in West Des Moines, Iowa, along the Tr- Jordan Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 2006 by Shive - Hattery, Inc., this dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans a length of 920 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 47 acre-feet. The dam is state regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is classified as having a significant hazard potential.

With a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2018, the Jordan Creek Mall - Northwest Dam serves as a vital structure for flood control and water resource management in the area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet, and a surface area of 2.3 acres. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion, and its emergency action plan status is currently unknown.

Overall, the Jordan Creek Mall - Northwest Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. As a privately owned structure, it is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and design of this dam, which showcases the importance of infrastructure in managing water resources and mitigating natural hazards.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

920

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Tr- Jordan Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.3

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

47

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.