Kirk Joy Dam, located in Talmage, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond. It was completed in 1987 and stands at a height of 25 feet, with a length of 520 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6.4 acres, serving as a vital resource for water management in the region.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Kirk Joy Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam plays a key role in controlling water flow in the West Wolf Creek watershed. Despite its modest size, the dam contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in Union County, Iowa, providing essential benefits to the local ecosystem.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Kirk Joy Dam as a significant infrastructure for water conservation and management in the region. With its multiple purposes and efficient design, the dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource practices. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, dams like Kirk Joy play a crucial role in securing water for various uses while mitigating potential risks to surrounding communities and ecosystems.