Doherty Dam, located in Cherokee, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1996 by the USDA NRCS. The dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 37 feet and a length of 270 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.7 acres. It is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

The dam's primary purpose is to provide essential water resources for both agricultural and wildfire protection needs in the area. Situated along the Little Sioux River, Doherty Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring water availability for local stakeholders. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to moderate risk, highlighting the importance of proper risk management measures and emergency preparedness. Overall, Doherty Dam is a vital infrastructure contributing to water resource management and climate resilience in the region, showcasing the collaboration between private ownership and state regulatory agencies in safeguarding water resources.