River/Stream: South Skunk River
Location: Story City, Story County
Owner: City of Story City
Height: 4 ft.
Length: 100 ft.
Warning Signs: portage marked
Portage: water trail portage on river right
Comments: This dam is the site of the first low head dam modifications in the state. Work to convert the dam into a rock rapids was completed in 2007 (image top). The effort greatly reduced the deadly hydraulic that often formed at the previous low head dam (image center). After modification and at higher water levels the rapids become a feature suitable for enjoyment by whitewater kayakers. Unfortunately the area has deteriorated due to underestimated forces that displaced undersized arched rock rapids structures (image bottom.)
Use all caution when considering recreation at this area.
