Shimek Forest Dam 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Shimek Forest Dam 4 is a state-owned structure located in Lee County, Iowa, specifically in Farmington.


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Summary

Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and spans 340 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with additional functions including fire protection, serving as a small fish pond, and potentially meeting water supply needs. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

Situated along the TR-Des Moines River, Shimek Forest Dam 4 offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities. With a normal storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 128 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 7.9 acres and has a drainage area of 0.27 square miles. While the spillway type is uncontrolled, the dam poses a moderate risk level, with moderate risk management measures in place.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Shimek Forest Dam 4 undergoes state-regulated inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance. The dam's location, design, and features make it a valuable resource for water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection of infrastructure, environmental conservation, and recreational opportunities in a natural setting.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TR-DES MOINES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.9

Drainage Area

0.27

Nid Storage

128

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.