Marlay Dam, located in Mount Sterling, Iowa, along the Tr- Fox River, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1999. The dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 350 feet in length, serving the primary purpose of grade stabilization. With a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.9 acres, Marlay Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

The dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential, Marlay Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. While it lacks an official condition assessment, it has not been rated as posing any immediate danger. The surrounding area benefits from the dam's ability to control water flow and prevent erosion, highlighting its importance for both water resource management and climate resilience.

Marlay Dam, constructed with earth materials and a soil foundation, represents a key infrastructure project contributing to the overall water infrastructure in Van Buren County, Iowa. With its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk level, the dam serves as a vital component of the local water management system. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate action, the significance of Marlay Dam lies in its role in safeguarding the environment and enhancing the resilience of the region's water resources in the face of changing climate patterns.