Located in Hazelton, Iowa, the Fontana Milldam is a gravity dam completed in 1962 primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
It stands at 14 feet high with a length of 180 feet, providing a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Otter Creek, covers a surface area of 59 acres and serves the community as a popular recreational spot.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Fontana Milldam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Although last inspected in 1977, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks.
With a serene setting and ample recreational opportunities, the Fontana Milldam is a valuable resource in Buchanan County, Iowa. While its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam also contributes to the local ecosystem and water management efforts. As climate and water resource enthusiasts explore this site on Otter Creek, it is essential to appreciate the balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in sustaining this unique infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
OTTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
59 |
Drainage Area |
55.7 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Wapsipinicon River At Independence
|
168cfs |
Cedar River At Waterloo
|
2090cfs |
Wapsipinicon River Near Tripoli
|
106cfs |
Maquoketa River At Manchester
|
75cfs |
Cedar River At Cedar Falls
|
1880cfs |
Cedar River At Janesville
|
711cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Fontana County Park
|
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Fontana County Park Campgrounds
|
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Oelwein City Park
|
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Jakway County Park
|
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Cutshall Area
|
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Jakway County Park Campground
|