The Sanford Dam, located in Carlisle, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. Completed in 1992, this privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans 440 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 26 acre-feet, the dam helps regulate the flow of the TR-North River.

Despite its low hazard potential, the Sanford Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it has not been modified since its completion. The risk assessment for the Sanford Dam is rated as moderate, with a risk management plan in place to address any potential issues that may arise.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Sanford Dam an intriguing structure due to its multiple purposes and the role it plays in managing water flow and storage in the region. With its earth construction and soil foundation, this dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing natural resources for various needs while also ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory standards.