Fort Dodge Correctional Facility

Nicholas Lamb, Warden
1550 L Street
Fort Dodge, IA 50501
515-574-4700

Fort Dodge (Webster county)
Medium security
515-574-4700

Approx. 262 Staff
Max. 1,400 Offenders

The Fort Dodge Correctional Facility (FDCF) is a medium security prison originally designed to house 762 adult male offenders in a double occupancy celled environment. Construction began in October 1996 and the facility opened April 1998. The facility is located on 60 acres of land in southern Fort Dodge. Recognizing the on-going need for public safety even before the first offenders arrived at the facility the legislature and Governor approved an expansion for an additional 400 beds and program space. Work on this addition was completed in late 1999. In FY01 127 two-man cells were converted to house three offenders. Current rated capacity is 1392. FDCF supports offender responsibility and progress through participation in targeted evidence-based treatment opportunities. Cognitive Based programs address issues of criminal thinking, domestic abuse, and substance abuse; offering offenders opportunities to increase their skills related to interpersonal relationships, self-care, decision making, and employment preparation.

FDCF provides educational opportunities through its partnership with Iowa Central Community College. Daily classes include HiSET (high school equivalency diploma), Literacy, ELS (English as a second language), Special Education, and Life Skills. Vocational classes vary from year to year depending on funding availability and have included welding, culinary, baking, building trades, and supply chain management.

FDCF offers Apprentice Programs in the following disciplines: Cook, Electrician, Painter, Plumbing, Welding, Computer Operator, Landscaping, Sewing Machine Repair, Carpenter, and Housekeeping. Additionally, offenders are able to complete the National Career Readiness Certificate that assesses areas deemed critical for successful employment.

Iowa Prison Industries currently provides onsite vocational training with their textiles program.