Swanson Dam, located in Buffalo, Iowa, was completed in 1971 by the USDA SCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. The earth dam stands at 25 feet high and spans a length of 246 feet, with a storage capacity of 47 acre-feet. Situated on Blackhawk Creek, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is designated as a low hazard potential structure.

Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, Swanson Dam has not been formally assessed for its condition, and its emergency action plan (EAP) and risk management measures are currently undetermined. The dam has not undergone recent inspections, but is under state jurisdiction with permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols in place. With a surface area of 2.7 acres and a drainage area of 0.1 square miles, Swanson Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, particularly for fire protection and wildlife conservation purposes. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Swanson Dam to be an interesting case study in dam infrastructure and environmental stewardship in the Midwest.