Garrels Dam, located in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, or serving as a small fish pond. Built in 2004 by the NRCS, this earth dam stands at 18 feet tall and stretches 390 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.7 acres, serving the surrounding area with its low hazard potential.

The dam, situated on TR- Big Creek, is designed with an uncontrolled spillway and is deemed to have a moderate risk level. Despite being not rated in terms of condition assessment, Garrels Dam undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. With a drainage area of 0.29 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 12 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

This structure, while privately owned, contributes to the overall water management system in Henry County, Iowa. With its strategic location and design features, Garrels Dam serves as a vital resource for fire protection and stock maintenance, highlighting the importance of small-scale water infrastructure in the broader context of climate resilience and resource sustainability.