Van Veldhuizen Dam, located in Coppock, Iowa, is a private-owned structure designed by NRCS and completed in 1996. This earth dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond along the TR- South Skunk River, with a height of 7 feet and a length of 5160 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 134 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 30.8 acres, providing essential habitat for aquatic species in the region.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with environmental regulations. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures. The presence of an uncontrolled spillway and the dam's location within Mahaska County highlight the importance of monitoring and maintaining the structure to protect downstream communities and ecosystems.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Van Veldhuizen Dam to be an intriguing example of how private ownership, state regulation, and ecological stewardship intersect in managing water infrastructure. With its focus on fish and wildlife conservation, this dam serves as a valuable asset for the local ecosystem while also posing challenges in risk assessment and management. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding and maintaining structures like Van Veldhuizen Dam become increasingly critical in ensuring sustainable water management practices for future generations.