Located in Villisca, Iowa, Dunn Dam is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond. Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 350 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. Situated on the TR- West Nodaway River, Dunn Dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and boasts a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.

With a surface area of 2.7 acres and a drainage area of 0.08 square miles, Dunn Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Montgomery County, Iowa. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and maintenance. While its emergency action plan status remains unclear, Dunn Dam serves as a valuable asset for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Dunn Dam in maintaining water quality and availability for various uses. With its modest storage capacity and low hazard potential, Dunn Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in rural communities like Villisca, Iowa. The collaboration between private owners, regulatory agencies, and design experts highlights the collective effort needed to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of such critical infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.