Jim Walter Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Greencrest Farms Dam Tapken Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Jim Walter Dam, located in Macksburg, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 2018.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at 26 feet high and spans 386 feet across, with a primary purpose of grade stabilization. With a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet, the dam serves to control flow in the tributary to Ninemile Creek, covering a drainage area of 0.07 square miles.
The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a crucial asset for managing water resources in the region while also offering recreational opportunities. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 24 feet, ensuring the safe release of excess water. Its location in Adair County, Iowa, demonstrates the collaboration between federal and state agencies in maintaining and regulating water infrastructure for the community.
Despite its relatively recent completion, Jim Walter Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. However, its presence contributes to the overall risk management measures in place for the area. With its strategic design and purpose, the dam serves as a vital component for both environmental protection and public enjoyment, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climates.
Year Completed |
2018 |
Dam Length |
386 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Ninemile Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.07 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Raccoon River At 63rd Street At Des Moines
|
587cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Jim Walter Dam