Elk Creek Dam No. 6 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Elk Creek Dam No.


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Summary

6, also known as Morgan Lake, is a vital piece of infrastructure located in Little York-Offstream, Indiana. Built in 1959 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and stretches 480 feet in length, serving as a key element in flood risk reduction for the surrounding area. With a maximum storage capacity of 114 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 9 acre-feet, Elk Creek Dam No. 6 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the community from potential flooding events.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Elk Creek Dam No. 6 has been assessed to be in fair condition with a low hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet inspection and regulatory standards, ensuring its effectiveness in safeguarding the area. However, with a high risk assessment rating of 2, there is a recognition of the importance of ongoing risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats and ensure the long-term resilience of the dam in the face of changing climate patterns.

As part of the Louisville District, Elk Creek Dam No. 6 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and local agencies in safeguarding water resources and enhancing community resilience to natural disasters. With a rich history of serving its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this earth dam continues to be a critical asset in the region's water infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of proactive maintenance and risk management strategies to uphold its essential role in protecting the local environment and population.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY ELK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

0.61

Nid Storage

114

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.