Fort Dodge Milldam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fort Dodge Iigec Milldam Becker Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The Fort Dodge Milldam, located on the Des Moines River in Webster County, Iowa, is a historic gravity dam that was completed in 1917 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 18 feet and a length of 342 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 2,525 acre-feet and a normal storage of 1,899 acre-feet. It serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Fort Dodge Milldam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities while also serving as a key element in the local water resource management system.
The Fort Dodge Milldam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 230 feet, allows for controlled water release during high flow events. The dam's location on the Des Moines River, within the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlights its importance in managing water resources and protecting against potential flood risks. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the Fort Dodge Milldam remains a vital piece of infrastructure for both recreation and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1917 |
Dam Length |
342 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
DES MOINES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
210 |
Drainage Area |
3750 |
Nid Storage |
2525 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Fort Dodge
|
1320cfs |
Des Moines River At Humboldt
|
401cfs |
East Fork Des Moines River At Dakota City
|
255cfs |
Boone River Near Webster City
|
232cfs |
Des Moines River Near Stratford
|
1720cfs |
Iowa River Near Rowan
|
195cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Fort Dodge Milldam