Lidtke Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lidtke Mill Dam, located on the Upper Iowa River in Howard County, Iowa, was completed in 1860 and stands at a height of 12 feet with a length of 120 feet.


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Summary

The dam serves a primary purpose not specified in the data, but its low hazard potential and very high risk assessment rating make it a significant structure in terms of water resource management and climate resilience. The dam is state-regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with permits, inspections, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite its age, Lidtke Mill Dam remains a crucial part of the local water infrastructure, with a storage capacity of 198 acre-feet and a drainage area of 182 square miles. The dam's controlled spillway and other features indicate a level of sophistication in its design, making it an important asset for flood control and water supply management in the region. The dam's risk management measures and high-risk assessment underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to protect against potential hazards and ensure its continued functionality in the face of changing climate conditions.

Overall, Lidtke Mill Dam stands as a testament to the historical importance of water infrastructure in the region and the ongoing challenges of managing these systems in the context of climate change. Its unique characteristics, state regulation, and risk assessment highlight the complex interplay between water resources, infrastructure, and climate resilience, making it a key site of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the impact of these factors on our built environment.

Year Completed

1860

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Upper Iowa River

Drainage Area

182

Nid Storage

198

Hazard Potential

Low

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.