Cole Dam, located in Mt. Sterling, Iowa, is a private earth dam completed in 1999 by the NRCS. Its primary purpose is to serve as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, with a storage capacity of 310 acre-feet and a surface area of 61.1 acres. The dam, standing at a height of 7 feet, is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state agencies.

Situated on the TR-FOX RIVER, Cole Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type of the dam ensures safety measures are in place. The risk assessment for Cole Dam is moderate, with a risk level of 3, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both wildlife and the surrounding community.

With a drainage area of 0.55 square miles and a moderate risk assessment level, Cole Dam is a vital resource for the conservation of fish and wildlife in the region. Its location in Van Buren County, Iowa, highlights its importance in managing water resources and climate impact mitigation efforts. Enthusiasts in water resource and climate conservation will find Cole Dam an intriguing structure to study and monitor for its ecological significance and structural integrity.