Mullet Dam, located in Mt. Sterling, Iowa, along the TR-Fox River, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS. This Earth-type dam stands at 22 feet high and stretches 455 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet. The dam serves a primary purpose of regulating water flow and has a low hazard potential, classified as moderate risk.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Mullet Dam is state regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a spillway width of 12 feet and uncontrolled outlets, the dam is designed to manage water levels and prevent flooding in the surrounding area. Despite being not rated for condition assessment, the dam is maintained within guidelines to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the local community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mullet Dam presents an intriguing case study of private ownership and state oversight in dam management. Its location in Davis County, Iowa, highlights the importance of maintaining and regulating water infrastructure to protect both the environment and local communities. As a key structure along the TR-Fox River, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control, showcasing the intersection of human engineering and natural resource conservation.