Courcier Dam, located in Montgomery County, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing a small fish pond. Built in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and stretches 585 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, the dam helps in regulating the flow of the TR-WEST NODAWAY RIVER, benefitting the surrounding community of TENVILLE.

Despite being a low hazard potential structure, Courcier Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is designed with an uncontrolled spillway and is primarily constructed with soil as its foundation material. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been given a condition assessment rating. Although not operated by a federal agency, Courcier Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Courcier Dam to be a fascinating example of sustainable water management practices. As a privately-owned structure, it showcases the importance of collaboration between private entities and regulatory agencies in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of dams for various purposes. With its strategic location and design features, Courcier Dam stands as a testament to the intricate balance between human needs and environmental conservation in the face of a changing climate.