Lauterbach Dam, located in Dallas County, Iowa, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1974. With a height of 40 feet and a length of 550 feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond. It has a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8 acres, with a drainage area of 0.38 square miles.

The dam, situated on the TR-Raccoon River, is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. Despite its low hazard potential, it is classified as having a moderate risk level (3) and its condition is currently not rated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is primarily constructed of earth and soil foundations.

While Lauterbach Dam may not be as large or well-known as other structures, its importance in providing fire protection and supporting local wildlife cannot be understated. This modest yet vital dam serves as a reminder of the diverse ways in which water resources contribute to our communities and ecosystems, highlighting the need for responsible management and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety for years to come.