Chew Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shell Lake Dam Coffing Brothers Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Chew Lake Dam, located in Vermillion County, Indiana, was completed in 1965 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This private dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 375 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 61 acre-feet of water. The dam boasts a surface area of 8.51 acres and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and leisure.
Despite its age, Chew Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam has not been inspected since January 1990, with no scheduled inspection frequency specified. While the dam is not regulated or permitted by the state, it remains a vital resource for the surrounding community, offering opportunities for recreation and enjoyment in a picturesque natural setting.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Chew Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and management. With its modest size and low hazard potential, this earth-type dam serves as both a recreational destination and a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water infrastructure for the safety and enjoyment of all.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
13 |
Surface Area |
8.51 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
0.34 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Chew Lake Dam