Stephens Forest Dam #1, located in Lucas, Iowa, was completed in 1971 by the Iowa Conservation Commission. This earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 558 feet along the South Whitebreast Creek. With a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, the dam also serves recreational purposes for the local community. The dam has a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 76 acres, with a drainage area of 0.22 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Stephens Forest Dam #1 is considered to have a moderate risk level (rating of 3). The dam is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. While the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," it has not undergone any recent modifications or maintenance work. The dam lacks emergency action plans and inundation maps, highlighting the need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the integrity of the dam structure. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate issues may find Stephens Forest Dam #1 an intriguing case study for the intersection of dam infrastructure, environmental conservation, and community safety.