Fort Atkinson Milldam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fort Atkinson Milldam, located on the Turkey River in Winneshiek County, Iowa, is a historic gravity dam completed in 1914 primarily for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a height of 11 feet with a length of 255 feet, creating a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 11 acres. While the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as not assessed for condition, it falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

With its picturesque location and historical significance, Fort Atkinson Milldam offers visitors a tranquil setting for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation contribute to its unique structural design, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified, raising questions about its long-term sustainability and safety measures in the face of changing environmental conditions.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the preservation and management of structures like Fort Atkinson Milldam become crucial for maintaining not only recreational opportunities but also the safety and well-being of surrounding communities. With further assessment and planning, this iconic dam can continue to serve as a valuable asset for both local residents and visitors, showcasing the harmonious relationship between nature and human innovation in water resource management.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

255

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TURKEY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

211

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.