Elk Creek Dam No. 9 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 29, 2025
Elk Creek Dam No.
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Summary
9, also known as Elk Lake, is a crucial water resource infrastructure located in Washington County, Indiana. Constructed in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Elk Creek. With a storage capacity of 1182 acre-feet and a normal storage of 519 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in managing water levels and minimizing flood risks in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Elk Creek Dam No. 9 has been assessed to be in fair condition as of October 2010. Despite its significant hazard potential, with a risk assessment rating of High (2), the dam continues to operate effectively in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water security for the surrounding area. With no spillway and outlet gates, the dam relies on its structural integrity and design to manage water flow and protect downstream areas from potential flooding events.
Located in Pumpkin Center, the Elk Creek Dam No. 9 is a vital component of the water management infrastructure in the region, providing critical flood risk reduction capabilities. With its stone core and rock-soil foundations, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, safeguarding communities and properties along Elk Creek. As climate change impacts water resources, maintaining and monitoring the condition of dams like Elk Creek Dam No. 9 becomes increasingly important to ensure their continued functionality and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
975 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
48 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
2.45 |
Nid Storage |
1182 |
Structural Height |
48 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
48 |
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.
Elk Creek Dam No. 9