Kopecky Dam, located in Thurman, Iowa, was completed in 2005 and is primarily used for grade stabilization along a tributary to Plum Creek. The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, is classified as an earth dam with a height of 31 feet and a length of 400 feet. It has a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres, serving a drainage area of 0.11 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated.

Owned privately, Kopecky Dam is regulated by the state of Iowa and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety. With a spillway width of 16 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 179 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region. The dam has no outlet gates and has not been modified since its construction, highlighting its stability and effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Overall, Kopecky Dam is a vital infrastructure for managing water resources in Fremont County, Iowa. Its design and construction by USDA NRCS, along with its purpose of grade stabilization, demonstrate a commitment to sustainable water management practices. With its low hazard potential and adherence to state regulations, Kopecky Dam stands as a reliable structure for safeguarding the local community and ecosystem from the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events.