Expect Temporary Lower Des Moines River Levels as Crews Install Flashboards at Center St. Dam

Des Moines, Iowa - Friday, July 24, 2026 - Des Moines residents can expect significantly lower water levels on the Des Moines River starting Monday, July 27.

To enhance recreational safety and usability on the Des Moines River, the City of Des Moines will be installing flashboards at the Center Street Dam on Tuesday, July 28, beginning at 7:30 a.m., weather permitting.

In preparation for this work, the outflow at the Saylorville Reservoir Dam will be adjusted starting Monday, July 27. This adjustment ensures that City personnel can safely access and install the flashboards at the Center Street Dam. Once the installation is complete, the outflow at the Saylorville Reservoir Dam will be readjusted, restoring the river's water level to its usual height.

Boaters using the Des Moines River and Birdland Marina should plan for lower water levels and consider how this temporary change may impact their activities. The lowered water levels are anticipated to last between 24 and 36 hours.

The flashboards are temporarily installed to raise the river level, enhancing recreational opportunities upstream. They are removed each fall to reduce the risk of flooding along the Des Moines River.

If weather conditions do not allow for the installation on the planned date, the process will be rescheduled for Wednesday, July 29.

Media Contact

Zoe Sadauskis
Communications Specialist, City Manager's Office
(515) 205-3829
[email protected]

About the City of Des Moines

The City of Des Moines is Iowa's capital city and our 17 departments serve more than 214,000 residents and 46 neighborhood associations. Des Moines is a leader in sustainability and provides its residents with vibrant neighborhoods, an alive and active downtown, and abundant leisure opportunities.

Des Moines continuously improves neighborhoods, public safety and quality of life by offering exceptional city services and reliable infrastructure while fostering an involved and compassionate community for all who visit and live in Des Moines.

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