The Mason City-Lehigh Cement Milldam is a historic structure located in Cerro Gordo County, Iowa, along the Calmus Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1924, this gravity dam serves as a vital water supply source for the area, with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 75 acre-feet. The dam has a height of 8 feet and a length of 71 feet, helping to regulate the flow of water and maintain a surface area of 20 acres.
Managed by a private owner, the Mason City-Lehigh Cement Milldam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level due to its age and lack of recent condition assessments. While the dam's spillway type is listed as uncontrolled, the risk management measures and emergency action plans for the structure are currently not rated or prepared.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Mason City-Lehigh Cement Milldam represents a piece of Iowa's water infrastructure history. With its unique design and role in providing water supply, this gravity dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water resources to ensure safety and sustainability for future generations.
Year Completed |
1924 |
Dam Length |
71 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
CALMUS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
26 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Winnebago River At Mason City
|
166cfs |
Cedar River At Charles City
|
450cfs |
Cedar River Near Austin
|
110cfs |
Iowa River Near Rowan
|
195cfs |
Little Cedar River Near Ionia
|
70cfs |
Shell Rock River At Shell Rock
|
484cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lime Creek County Conservation Area
|
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Wilkinson Pioneer ounty Park Campgrounds
|
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Clear Lake State Park Campground
|