Gatton Dam, located in Mahaska County, Iowa, along the TR- North Skunk River, is a private earth dam that serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. Built in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 23 feet with a length of 350 feet, providing a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Gatton Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Despite its small drainage area of 0.3 square miles, the dam's surface area of 4.2 acres provides essential water resources for the surrounding community while also contributing to the local ecosystem.

As a vital water resource in the region, Gatton Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of climate change on the area's water supply. With its strategic location and design, the dam not only supports agricultural activities and fire protection but also enhances the resilience of the local ecosystem. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate management will find Gatton Dam to be an intriguing case study in sustainable water management practices and the intersection of human development with natural landscapes.