Daniel D. Bray Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Geneva Dam Edwin Pray Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Daniel D.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Bray Lake Dam, located in Switzerland County, Indiana, is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1960 for recreational purposes. The dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 350 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 46 acre-feet. The primary purposes of the dam are for fish and wildlife pond enhancement as well as recreational activities.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in March 2017. The risk assessment for Daniel D. Bray Lake Dam is moderate, highlighting the need for potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. With a drainage area of 0.06 square miles and a surface area of 4.1 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting the local ecosystem.
The dam is situated on the South Fork Laughery Creek, near the city of Bear Branch-Offstream, and is regulated and permitted by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. As a key feature in the Louisville District, Daniel D. Bray Lake Dam contributes to the region's water management efforts and provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the dam's role in enhancing the local environment while also recognizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability and functionality.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK LAUGHERY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
46 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Daniel D. Bray Lake Dam
Lafayette Street, Vevay