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Fort Atkinson Milldam, located on the Turkey River in Winneshiek County, Iowa, is a historic gravity dam completed in 1914 primarily for recreation purposes. 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_Height | 11 |
River_Or_Stream | TURKEY RIVER |
Dam_Length | 255 |
Primary_Dam_Type | Gravity |
Surface_Area | 11 |
Drainage_Area | 211 |
Nid_Storage | 60 |
Hazard_Potential | Low |
Foundations | Soil |
Nid_Height | 11 |
UPPER IOWA RIVER AT DECORAH | 137cfs |
UPPER IOWA RIVER AT BLUFFTON | 226cfs |
YELLOW RIVER AT ION | 92cfs |
TURKEY RIVER AT SPILLVILLE | 148cfs |
CEDAR RIVER AT JANESVILLE | 753cfs |
WEST FORK CEDAR RIVER AT FINCHFORD | 885cfs |
UPPER IOWA RIVER NEAR DORCHESTER | 556cfs |