Located in Madison County, Iowa, Ayers Dam is a privately owned earth dam built in 1988 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. With a height of 37 feet and a length of 310 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 28 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres. Situated on TR-Clanton Creek, Ayers Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

The dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level on a scale of 1 to 5. While the condition of Ayers Dam is currently not rated, it meets state guidelines for emergency action plans (EAP) and risk management measures. Despite not being under the jurisdiction of any federal agency, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has no outlet gates or associated locks. Ayers Dam serves as an essential resource for fire protection and water storage in the area, contributing to the conservation and management of water resources in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Ayers Dam for its role in providing essential services such as fire protection and stock or fish pond storage. As a privately owned structure in Iowa, the dam is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safety and compliance. With its modest size and moderate risk level, Ayers Dam highlights the importance of proper maintenance and management of earth dams for water resource conservation and community safety.