Nicholson Dam, located in Taylor County, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. Built in 1991 by the USDA NRCS, this private earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 470 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 4 acres and drains a 0.21 square mile watershed along the TR- West Fork 102 River.

Despite its low hazard potential, Nicholson Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its risk assessment is classified as moderate. Although the dam does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan, it meets regulatory guidelines and serves as a critical resource for water storage and management in the region.

In the event of an emergency, local authorities can contact the dam's owner for necessary actions. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Nicholson Dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for firefighting, livestock, and aquatic habitat maintenance in the area. Its construction and maintenance are overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.