Waverly Milldam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Waverly Milldam, located on the Cedar River in Bremer, Iowa, is a historic structure with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1872, this gravity dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 384 feet. With a storage capacity of 1,261 acre-feet and serving as a source of recreation as well, the dam plays a significant role in the local water resource management.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Waverly Milldam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has undergone satisfactory condition assessments with the last inspection conducted in July 2016. The risk assessment for Waverly Milldam indicates a moderate level of risk, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding area and maintain the dam's structural integrity.

The presence of Waverly Milldam not only highlights the historical significance of hydroelectric power generation in the region but also underscores the importance of balancing water resource utilization and conservation efforts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and effectively managing structures like Waverly Milldam will be crucial in ensuring sustainable water management practices for future generations.

Year Completed

1872

Dam Length

384

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

CEDAR RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

175

Drainage Area

1549

Nid Storage

1261

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.