Sweetwater Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sweetwater Lake Dam, located in Brown, Indiana, is a key structure regulating the flow of Sweetwater Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 140 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 11,700 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, providing a surface area of 275 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy.

With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, Sweetwater Lake Dam is closely monitored and inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its function effectively, ensuring the safety of nearby communities and maintaining the integrity of the surrounding environment. The spillway, with a width of 150 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing excess water to safely pass through during periods of heavy rainfall.

While the risk assessment for Sweetwater Lake Dam is moderate, the dam remains a vital structure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure like Sweetwater Lake Dam to ensure the sustainable use of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1560

Dam Height

140

River Or Stream

SWEETWATER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

275

Hydraulic Height

121

Drainage Area

2.29

Nid Storage

11700

Structural Height

140

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

140
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.