Natural Milk Dam, located in Avoca, Iowa, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 2006 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR- East Branch West Nishnabotna River. Designed by De Haan, Grabs & Associates, this dam stands at a height of 49 feet and has a length of 2640 feet, with a storage capacity of 378 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

The dam's location in Shelby County, Iowa, makes it a critical infrastructure for managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 276 acre-feet and a surface area of 7.8 acres, the Natural Milk Dam plays a vital role in controlling water flow and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding events. Its controlled spillway ensures safe discharge of excess water during heavy rainfall or high water levels.

As a part of the flood risk reduction strategy, the Natural Milk Dam has a very high risk assessment rating of 1, signaling the importance of its role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding community from potential hazards. With its state-regulated status and adherence to inspection and enforcement protocols, this dam serves as a valuable asset in safeguarding the local environment and enhancing climate resilience in the region.