Easter Lake Retention Basin #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Easter Lake Retention Basin #1, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is a crucial infrastructure designed by Snyder & Associates to reduce flood risk in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 2005, this earth dam stands at 18 feet high and spans 260 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. The dam serves as a key component in managing the flow of Tr-Yeader Creek, a tributary that runs through Polk County.

With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Easter Lake Retention Basin #1 is state-regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. The dam has a significant hazard potential and has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition as of September 2010. Although the dam has not undergone recent inspections or modifications, it is crucial for maintaining the safety and stability of the surrounding area, especially during periods of heavy rainfall and potential flooding events.

While the dam currently meets safety guidelines and moderate risk levels, ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures will be essential to ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the community and environment. As a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, Easter Lake Retention Basin #1 serves as a testament to the proactive approach taken by local government to mitigate flood risks and safeguard water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Tr-Yeader Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

20

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.