Little Raccoon Dam No. 12b Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Little Raccoon Dam No.
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Summary
12b, also known as Ramsey Lake, is a vital structure located in Judson, Indiana, along the South Fork Little Raccoon Creek. Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this local government-owned earth dam stands at a height of 46.5 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 5754 acre-feet and a drainage area of 14.1 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Parke County, Indiana.
Despite its importance, Little Raccoon Dam No. 12b is currently in poor condition with a significant hazard potential, as assessed in 2015. The last inspection in August 2018 highlighted the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam. With a high risk assessment rating, it is essential for the state regulatory agency, IDNR, to enforce inspection and enforcement measures regularly to mitigate any potential risks associated with this dam.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and extreme weather events become more frequent, the role of structures like Little Raccoon Dam No. 12b in flood risk reduction becomes increasingly vital. It is crucial for local and state agencies to work together to address the maintenance needs of this dam and ensure that it continues to serve its purpose effectively in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1470 |
Dam Height |
46.5 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK LITTLE RACCOON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
61 |
Hydraulic Height |
47 |
Drainage Area |
14.1 |
Nid Storage |
5754 |
Structural Height |
47 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
47 |
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.
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Little Raccoon Dam No. 12b