Cedarville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cedarville Dam, also known as Cedarville Reservoir Dam, is a vital water resource structure located in Allen, Indiana.


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Summary

This earth-type dam was completed in 1953 and serves the primary purpose of water supply for the region. Situated on the St. Joseph River, the dam has a height of 27 feet and a hydraulic height of 19 feet, with a storage capacity of 7,830 acre-feet.

With a surface area of 460 acres and a drainage area of 763 square miles, Cedarville Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and ensuring water supply for the surrounding communities. Despite being deemed to have a fair condition assessment, the dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The dam's controlled spillway and Tainter outlet gates help to regulate water flow and prevent potential risks.

As a key infrastructure for water supply and recreation, Cedarville Dam is a significant asset in the region's water management system. Its very high risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of this essential resource. The dam's location on the St. Joseph River and its role in regulating water flow make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

1900

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

ST. JOSEPH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

460

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

763

Nid Storage

7830

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.