Mitchell Mill Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: St Ansgar Milldam Staceyville Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mitchell Mill Dam, located in Mitchell County, Iowa, was completed in 1925 and stands at a height of 19 feet, with a length of 590 feet.
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Summary
The dam, primarily designed for recreation purposes, holds a normal storage capacity of 1454 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 120 acres. The Red Cedar River flows through this picturesque location, offering visitors a tranquil setting for various outdoor activities.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Mitchell Mill Dam boasts a low hazard potential and has a history of regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam features a unique design with a stone core and soil foundation, with controlled outlet gates including Tainter radial gates. Despite its age, the dam remains a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in the surrounding area.
With its rich history and scenic surroundings, Mitchell Mill Dam continues to attract visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Iowa. As one of the many dams regulated by state and federal agencies, it serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of climate change. Whether enjoying a leisurely day by the river or studying the dam's engineering marvels, Mitchell Mill Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human intervention and natural landscapes.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
590 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
Red Cedar |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
120 |
Drainage Area |
826 |
Nid Storage |
1454 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1, Tainter (radial) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Winnebago River At Mason City
|
166cfs |
Cedar River At Charles City
|
450cfs |
Cedar River Near Austin
|
115cfs |
Little Cedar River Near Ionia
|
70cfs |
Shell Rock River At Shell Rock
|
484cfs |
Cedar River At Waverly
|
436cfs |
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.
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Mitchell Mill Dam