Cloud Dam, located in Mapleton, Iowa, is a private earth dam completed in 1995 by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection and creating a small fish pond. The dam has a height of 32 feet, a length of 510 feet, and a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Maple River, the dam serves as a critical resource for water storage and management in the region, with a surface area of 5.9 acres and a drainage area of 0.22 square miles.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Cloud Dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement actions to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is designed to manage moderate risks associated with its operation. With its location in Monona County, Iowa, Cloud Dam plays a vital role in providing water resources for irrigation, fire protection, and recreational activities in the area.

Managed by a private owner, Cloud Dam showcases the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. As a key infrastructure for water storage and flood control, the dam represents a collaborative effort between state agencies, designers, and regulators to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure for the benefit of the local community and ecosystem.