Shaw Dam, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is a privately-owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1969. With a height of 33 feet and a length of 250 feet, the dam serves primarily for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. It has a storage capacity of 38 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres, with a drainage area of 0.06 square miles.

Managed by the Iowa DNR and regulated by the state, Shaw Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Although its condition is currently not rated, the dam undergoes state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. The spillway is uncontrolled, and the dam's foundation is soil-based, serving as a vital structure in the region for water resource management and climate adaptation efforts.

Situated along the TR-Big Hollow Creek and the Mississippi River, Shaw Dam plays a crucial role in water retention and storage for the surrounding area. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam contributes to fire protection, stock maintenance, and ecological sustainability. As a key feature in the local landscape, Shaw Dam exemplifies the integration of infrastructure and natural resources management for the benefit of both water resources and climate enthusiasts alike.