Lake Cimarron Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Cimarron, located in the picturesque city of Lake Ponderosa in Iowa, is a private water resource managed by French-Reneker Associates.


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Summary

This man-made lake, constructed in 2012, covers an area of 27.6 acres and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a dam height of 27 feet and a storage capacity of 569 acre-feet, Lake Cimarron is a significant water source in the region with a high hazard potential.

Maintained by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Lake Cimarron is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam, primarily composed of earth and stone materials, has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in June 2020. However, due to its high hazard potential, emergency preparedness measures are crucial for the surrounding community in case of any unforeseen events.

With its tranquil surroundings and recreational opportunities, Lake Cimarron is not only a popular spot for water enthusiasts but also a vital resource for the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of Lake Cimarron play a crucial role in preserving this valuable natural asset for future generations.

Year Completed

2012

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Trib to Lake Ponderosa

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27.6

Drainage Area

0.82

Nid Storage

569

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.