Cheers Dam, located in Union County, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 390 feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond. Its storage capacity is 56 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 22 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam is situated on Squaw Creek and is designed to handle low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. It does not have outlet gates or locks, and its spillway is uncontrolled. Despite being in operation for over 50 years, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "not rated," indicating a need for further evaluation. The surrounding area is at a moderate risk of potential dam failure, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to protect downstream communities and ecosystems.

Cheers Dam represents a vital water resource for the local area, providing essential fire protection and recreational opportunities. As a key contributor to the water management infrastructure in Union County, the dam's maintenance and regulation by the Iowa DNR are crucial to ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the dam's unique design and function, as well as the ongoing efforts to manage its potential risks and safeguard its long-term viability.