Shaw Dam, located in Riverton, Iowa, along the TR-East Nishnabotna River, is a privately owned structure designed by the NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond. Completed in 2003, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 560 feet, with a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet. With a surface area of 3.8 acres and a drainage area of 0.62 square miles, Shaw Dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Shaw Dam has not been conditionally assessed and lacks an emergency action plan. However, it meets state permitting and regulatory requirements, ensuring its structural integrity and safe operation. Its uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 2 feet, allows for controlled water release when needed. The dam serves as a vital resource for fire protection and livestock watering while providing habitat for small fish species, contributing to the overall ecosystem health of the area.

Shaw Dam, owned and operated by a private entity, plays a crucial role in water resource management in Fremont County, Iowa. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam serves multiple functions while maintaining a low risk profile. As a key component of the local watershed, Shaw Dam contributes to the overall resilience of the region's water supply and ecosystem. Climate enthusiasts and water resource managers alike can appreciate the importance of this structure in enhancing both environmental and community well-being in the area.