Joshua Rardin Dam, located in Grand River, Iowa, is a privately owned dam primarily designed for grade stabilization purposes. Completed in 2017 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 462 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 27 acre-feet, serving the local community by stabilizing grade and providing recreational opportunities.

With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Joshua Rardin Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures. The dam, situated on a tributary to Thompson River, has a spillway width of 12 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 96 cubic feet per second. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As a key infrastructure for water supply and recreational activities, Joshua Rardin Dam contributes to the overall water management strategy in Adair County, Iowa. With its strategic location and design elements, this dam serves as a vital asset for both environmental conservation and community development, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate patterns.