Welcome! The Iowa Low Head Dams Reference is a truly unique resource for anyone who may recreate on or near waters within the state of Iowa. This state has about 3300 dams of varying styles and widely ranging levels of danger.
Dams increase the risk of any water related activity, and all river users must be cognizant of the dangers posed and know how to avoid deadly encounters. A low head dam with just a few inches of water drop can create entrapping hydraulics just as deadly as those created by taller dams.
This website presents
The Dam Facts which provides brief answers to some frequently asked questions.
A Primer on Low Head Dams briefly describes water trails, low head dams, side effects of dams, and opportunities for safety improvements and economic development.
The
Dams Map page provides a graphical overview of the state, its rivers and dots representing the locations of the most signicant dams in the state. Hover the mouse pointer over a dot to display the name of the dam at that location. Most dots can be clicked to display details about the dam in a new window.
The
Rivers Index page provides a list of Iowa rivers and the dams along each river. Each dam description page provides photographs (as available), site specific hazard listing and portage options. Each dam page also has links to the next dams upstream or downstream from the current dam.
Dam owners and water trail developers should be sure to check
Iowa DNR & Dam Safety page to learn about state and federal programs that can be utilized to improve safety at dams and to develop new water trails.
The
Fatalities page provides a memorial listing of victims and dates with links to the dams that claimed their lives.
There is a lot on additional information already posted on the world wide web. Check out the
Links page to learn more about dam danger and safety. This page also includes links to interesting resources focused on dam removal.
