Located in Ottumwa, Iowa, the Jefferson Park Watershed Site 4 is a key component in flood risk reduction efforts along the TR-Des Moines River. Owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and stretches 510 feet in length. Completed in 1978, it has a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.7 acres within a drainage area of 0.22 square miles.

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this site plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding events. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is inspected on a regular basis to ensure its integrity and functionality. Despite its age, the Jefferson Park Watershed Site 4 continues to serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively, making it a vital asset in the community's water resource management infrastructure.

Supported by state and federal agencies, including the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam exemplifies collaborative efforts to enhance water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change poses increasing challenges to water systems, structures like the Jefferson Park Watershed Site 4 play a vital role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability, this site stands as a model of effective water resource management in the face of a changing climate.