Cole Dam, located in Rome, Iowa, was completed in 1991 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a small fish pond. The dam, with a height of 27 feet and a length of 350 feet, was designed by the USDA NRCS and is owned and regulated by a private entity in coordination with the Iowa DNR. Situated on the TR-Middle Walnut Creek, the dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as an earth dam with a soil foundation.

With a normal storage capacity of 27 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 42 acre-feet, Cole Dam covers a surface area of 3.8 acres and drains a 0.06 square mile area. The dam does not have a controlled spillway and is not equipped with outlet gates or locks. While the condition of the dam has not been rated, it is inspected, permitted, and regulated by the Iowa DNR to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The risk assessment for Cole Dam is moderate, with measures in place to manage any potential risks associated with the structure.

Overall, Cole Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resource management and protection in the Jefferson County area of Iowa. With its strategic location and multiple purposes, the dam serves as a valuable asset for the community while also maintaining a low hazard potential and adhering to state regulatory standards. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the design, function, and management of Cole Dam as an important component of the local ecosystem.