Jensen Wetland Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Jensen Wetland, located in Riverton, Iowa, is a state-regulated wetland designed by USDA NRCS with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 2002, this Earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and a length of 1330 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 677 acre-feet. With a surface area of 109 acres and a drainage area of 0.9 square miles, Jensen Wetland plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing the risk of flooding in the surrounding area along the TR-East Nishnabotna River.

Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, Jensen Wetland remains an essential asset for flood risk reduction and recreational activities in Fremont County, Iowa. The wetland has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it is regularly inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to ensure its continued effectiveness. With a spillway width of 12 feet and state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, Jensen Wetland is well-maintained and equipped to handle potential emergencies efficiently.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Jensen Wetland serves as a prime example of sustainable water management practices. By harnessing the natural landscape and implementing Earth dam infrastructure, this wetland effectively balances flood risk reduction with recreational opportunities. With its strategic location and efficient design, Jensen Wetland stands as a testament to the importance of environmentally conscious water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

1330

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

TR-East Nishnabotna River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

109

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

677

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

8
       
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.