Sawgrass Park Dam, located in Ankeny, Iowa, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at 27 feet tall and spans 220 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2019, Sawgrass Park Dam serves as a vital component in flood risk reduction efforts within the area.
The dam's design includes a stone core and soil foundation, with an uncontrolled spillway type. Despite its modest size, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources, with a drainage area of 0.5 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 23 acre-feet. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam's operations are overseen by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that necessary inspections and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its integrity and safety.
As a focal point for outdoor recreation in the region, Sawgrass Park Dam offers not only flood protection but also a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. Its strategic location, combined with its functional design and satisfactory condition, underscores the importance of this infrastructure in promoting both water resource management and climate resilience in the community.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
27 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
40 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Des Moines River Near Saylorville
|
855cfs |
Fourmile Creek Near Ankeny
|
9cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Grimes
|
183cfs |
Des Moines River At 2nd Avenue
|
418cfs |
Fourmile Creek At Des Moines
|
22cfs |
Raccoon River At Fleur Drive
|
1200cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cherry Glen Campground
|
||
Acorn Valley Campground
|
||
Water Trail Campsite
|