Vos Dam, located in Union Mills, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS. This dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 30 feet and a length of 484 feet, Vos Dam has a storage capacity of 46 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.7 acres. It is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

The dam, situated on the TR-North Skunk River, is designed to have uncontrolled spillways and is classified as having a low hazard potential. Its condition is currently not rated, but it has a moderate risk assessment score of 3. Despite not being owned or funded by federal agencies, Vos Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike can appreciate the significance of this structure in providing essential services to the local community while also taking into account its environmental impact and risk management measures.

As an integral part of the local landscape, Vos Dam stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners, state regulators, and design agencies in ensuring the safety and functionality of water infrastructure. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam serves as a key asset for fire protection, livestock management, and ecological preservation along the North Skunk River. Its moderate risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard both the dam and the surrounding environment, highlighting the complex interplay between human activities and natural resources in the face of changing climate conditions.