Easter Lake Retention Basin # 10 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Easter Lake Retention Basin # 10 is a vital infrastructure project located in Des Moines, Iowa, designed by Snyder & Associates to mitigate flood risks in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 2005, this earth-type dam stands at 22 feet high and spans 335 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the retention basin effectively manages stormwater runoff from Tr- Yeader Creek, serving as a critical component in the region's water resource management system.

The retention basin's significant hazard potential is matched by its satisfactory condition assessment, ensuring the structure's resilience in the face of potential emergencies. Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and subject to regular inspection and enforcement measures, Easter Lake Retention Basin # 10 plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community from the impacts of extreme weather events. The basin's moderate risk assessment rating underscores its importance in maintaining the overall water infrastructure resilience in the area.

Located in Polk County, Easter Lake Retention Basin # 10 serves as a testament to effective collaboration between local government agencies and design firms in addressing climate-related challenges. With a focus on flood risk reduction and a storage capacity of 10 acre-feet under normal conditions, this retention basin exemplifies the intersection of engineering excellence and environmental stewardship. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Easter Lake Retention Basin # 10 are essential in building climate resilience and ensuring the sustainable management of water systems in the region.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Tr- Yeader Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.6

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

23

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.