Rutan Farms Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Rutan Farms Lake Dam, located in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1966, the dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans a length of 125 feet, with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Situated along the TR-South Fork Wildcat Creek, this low hazard potential dam provides a serene setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.
Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, Rutan Farms Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The last inspection conducted on the dam was back in 1984, highlighting the need for periodic assessments to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 179 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in providing water resources for recreational use in the Mulberry-Offstream area.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the management and maintenance of dams like Rutan Farms Lake Dam become increasingly crucial. Ensuring the safety and functionality of these structures is essential for sustainable water management practices in the region. With proper monitoring and maintenance, Rutan Farms Lake Dam can continue to provide a safe and enjoyable recreational experience for water enthusiasts while also contributing to water resource conservation efforts in Indiana.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
125 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH FK WILDCAT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Fork Wildcat Creek Near Lafayette
|
57cfs |
Wildcat Creek At Owasco
|
52cfs |
Wildcat Creek Near Lafayette
|
126cfs |
Wabash River At Lafayette Ind
|
1310cfs |
Prairie Creek Near Lebanon
|
11cfs |
Deer Creek Near Delphi
|
58cfs |
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.
Rutan Farms Lake Dam