Hess Dam, located in Worthington, Iowa, was completed in 1970 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and maintaining a small fish pond. Managed by a private owner, the dam stands at 26 feet tall and spans 500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, is primarily made of earth and founded on soil. It is situated on the TR-Durion Branch river and is owned by a private entity. While it does not have a controlled spillway, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 33 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5 acres. The risk assessment for the dam is considered moderate, with no official condition rating provided.

Overall, Hess Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and contributes to the local ecosystem in Worthington, Iowa. With its multifunctional purposes and regulated operations, the dam provides essential services while mitigating potential risks associated with its structure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of human infrastructure with natural environments.