Pahoka Camp Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Pahoka Camp Lake Dam, located in Posey County, Indiana, stands as a private earth dam completed in 1935 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a structural height of 37 feet and a length of 420 feet, this dam creates a picturesque 9.01-acre lake that offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The dam's normal storage capacity is 131 acre-feet, providing a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

However, despite its scenic attributes, Pahoka Camp Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential but a high risk assessment rating of 2. The last inspection date recorded was in 2017, and the dam is scheduled for inspections every five years. The lack of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps raises concerns about the dam's readiness for potential emergencies. With its unique history and role in the local ecosystem, efforts should be made to ensure the safety and longevity of this important water resource.

As a vital structure in the region, Pahoka Camp Lake Dam serves not only as a recreational spot but also as a potential risk factor that requires careful monitoring and maintenance. Its location near an unnamed tributary of Pahoka Creek adds to its significance, making it essential for stakeholders to prioritize the dam's upkeep and safety measures. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities of this dam provides insight into the delicate balance between human recreation and environmental protection in the face of changing climates and increasing risks.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY PAHOKA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.01

Hydraulic Height

37

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

193

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

37
       
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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.