Marsh Dam, located in Taylor County, Iowa, along the TR- West Branch 102 River, is a private earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1990. Standing at a height of 30 feet and spanning 424 feet in length, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 3 acres and has a drainage area of 0.15 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Marsh Dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes state inspections and enforcement. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it meets state permitting requirements and has not been modified since its completion. The dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are not fully disclosed, indicating a need for further evaluation and preparedness in the event of an emergency.

Overall, Marsh Dam serves as a vital resource for the local community in Hopkins, MO, providing essential water storage for fire protection and livestock use. As a private earth dam with state regulation and oversight, it highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring water infrastructure to ensure safety and sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the unique design and purpose of Marsh Dam, as well as the ongoing efforts to assess and manage potential risks associated with its operation.