Located in Adams County, Iowa, the Walters Creek Watershed Site 40-1 is a local government-owned dam designed by USDA NRCS for multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and flood risk reduction. Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a length of 480 feet, providing a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 0.33 square miles and a surface area of 5 acres, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure for the residents of Lake Icaria and the surrounding area.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, this dam on TR-Kemp Creek is considered to have a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. While the condition of the dam has not been rated, routine inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the state regulatory agency ensure its safe operation. Despite not having a designated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or updated inundation maps, the Walters Creek Watershed Site 40-1 remains a vital component of water resource management in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events, the importance of sustainable watershed management practices becomes increasingly essential for safeguarding communities and ecosystems.

With a primary purpose of water storage for various uses, this dam represents a significant piece of infrastructure in the region's water resource management system. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Walters Creek Watershed Site 40-1 is crucial for addressing challenges related to water security, flood risk reduction, and ecosystem preservation in a changing climate. By promoting sustainable water management practices and ensuring the safety and maintenance of critical infrastructure like this dam, stakeholders can work towards building resilient communities and protecting valuable water resources for future generations.