Lemke Dam, located in Adair, Iowa, along the TR-South Fork Middle River, was completed in 1970 with a primary purpose of recreation. The dam stands at 28 feet high and spans 635 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 253 acre-feet. Owned privately and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Lemke Dam is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating.

Managed by the USDA NRCS, Lemke Dam serves as a vital water resource for the local community, offering recreational opportunities while also providing crucial flood control and water storage functions. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam has undergone state inspection, permitting, and enforcement, ensuring its operational safety. With its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, Lemke Dam remains an essential infrastructure contributing to water management efforts in the region.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate Lemke Dam for its role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding and supporting sustainable water usage practices. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, this earth dam serves as a testament to the importance of proper dam management and regulation in mitigating risks and ensuring water resource sustainability in Iowa.