Burlington Y-Camp Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Burlington Y-Camp Dam, located in Des Moines County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and spans a length of 280 feet, with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. Situated on the Tr- Dry Branch river, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and adherence to state regulations.

Despite its low hazard potential, the Burlington Y-Camp Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of August 2020. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate risk rating of 3, prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures. With its picturesque location and historical significance in the area, efforts are being made to address the dam's condition and ensure its continued functionality for the enjoyment of visitors to the Burlington community.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

Tr- Dry Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.29

Nid Storage

150

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

47
       
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.