Fraser Milldam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Don Williams Lake Dam Bergstrom Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Fraser Milldam, located in Boone, Iowa, along the Des Moines River, was completed in 1911 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at 7 feet tall and stretches 475 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 345 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment. The dam is owned and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and maintenance.
This gravity dam, built on a soil foundation, is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. With a surface area of 100 acres and a drainage area of 4905 square miles, Fraser Milldam provides a serene retreat for visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Des Moines River. Although the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, regular inspections have been conducted to monitor its structural integrity and safety.
While Fraser Milldam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, its historical significance and natural surroundings make it a valuable asset for the community. With its controlled spillway and low hazard potential, the dam continues to serve as a peaceful recreational destination for locals and visitors alike. As climate and water resource enthusiasts explore the area, they can appreciate the balance between human enjoyment and environmental conservation that Fraser Milldam embodies.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
475 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
DES MOINES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
100 |
Drainage Area |
4905 |
Nid Storage |
345 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Des Moines YMCA Camp
|
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Camp Hantesa
|
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Ledges State Park Campground
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Fraser Milldam
Fraser