Elkader Milldam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elkader Milldam is a gravity dam located on the Turkey River in Elkader, Iowa, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1926, this dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a length of 206 feet. With a storage capacity of 2947 acre-feet, it serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the Clayton County area.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Elkader Milldam is state-regulated and regularly inspected to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further assessment. Additionally, the dam has a moderate risk level (3), prompting the need for risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats.

While Elkader Milldam has not undergone recent modifications or assessments, it remains a significant recreational feature in the area, offering opportunities for water-based activities and enjoyment along the Turkey River. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, ensuring the safety and resilience of dams like Elkader Milldam is crucial for sustainable water management and environmental conservation efforts in Iowa.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

206

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TURKEY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

65

Drainage Area

891

Nid Storage

2947

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.