Ames Basin #2
Ames Basin #2 is an earth dam located in Story County, Iowa, built in 1985. It carries a High hazard potential classification and has a satisfactory condition assessment.
About Ames Basin #2
The primary purpose of Ames Basin #2 is flood risk reduction. The dam is designed to control downstream flooding by temporarily storing excess water during storms and releasing it at a controlled rate. The dam is owned by City Of Ames Public Works (local government). It impounds the Tr- Skunk R. near Ames.
The dam stands 13 feet tall and stretches 1,000 feet across, has a maximum storage capacity of 155 acre-feet, and collects water from a drainage area of 0 square miles. Completed in 1985, the structure is 41 years old.
This dam carries a high hazard potential classification, which means that a failure or uncontrolled release of water would likely cause loss of human life. This classification reflects the consequences of failure, not the likelihood — it indicates that people live or work in the area downstream. Its condition is rated satisfactory, indicating no existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. An emergency action plan is in place for this dam. The most recent inspection on record was 05/23/2024.
Living Downstream
If you live or work downstream of this dam, consider taking these steps: learn your local evacuation routes, check whether your county emergency management office has a dam failure inundation map, and sign up for local emergency alerts. The Iowa dam safety program can provide more specific information about emergency planning for this structure.
Search for dams near your address to see all dams in your area with hazard classifications and safety data.
Location
| State | Iowa |
| County | Story |
| Nearest City | Ames |
| River/Stream | Tr- Skunk R. |
| Coordinates | 41.99210, -93.62540 |
Physical Characteristics
| Dam Type | Earth |
| NID Height | 13 ft |
| Dam Height | 13 ft |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Year Completed | 1985 (41 years old) |
Storage & Hydraulics
| NID Storage | 155 acre-ft |
| Max Storage | 155 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Spillway Type | Uncontrolled |
Ownership & Safety
| Purpose | Flood Risk Reduction |
| Owner | City of Ames Public Works |
| Owner Type | Local Government |
| Hazard Classification | High |
| Condition Assessment | Satisfactory |
| Last Inspection | 05/23/2024 |
| Emergency Action Plan | Yes |
Identifiers
| NID ID | IA02392 |
| Federal ID | IA02392 |
| More Info | State Dam Safety Program |