Gardner Dam, located in Copock, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the NRCS and completed in 2003. This earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 250 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 46 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Gardner Dam is for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond, serving the local community with its 3.4-acre surface area and 0.14 square miles of drainage area along the TR- Skunk River.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Gardner Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam poses minimal danger to surrounding areas. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam remains structurally sound and operational for its intended purposes, contributing to water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a vital component of the local water infrastructure, Gardner Dam plays a significant role in maintaining water supply reliability and supporting ecosystem health in Washington County, Iowa. With its strategic location and design features, this dam serves as a valuable asset for fire protection, agricultural needs, and recreational activities, showcasing the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in the heart of the Midwest.