Little Raccoon Dam No. 3 - Earl Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Little Raccoon Dam No.


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Summary

3, also known as Earl Dam, is a vital structure located in Nyesville, Indiana, along Sand Creek. Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and spans 505 feet, providing flood risk reduction and recreational opportunities for the local community. Managed by the USDA NRCS, this dam has a maximum storage capacity of 1,582 acre-feet and a normal storage of 202 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 4.77 square miles.

With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Little Raccoon Dam No. 3 is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet and is equipped with valve outlet gates. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding area from flood events.

As a key component of flood risk reduction efforts in Parke County, Indiana, Little Raccoon Dam No. 3 - Earl Dam remains a cornerstone of water resource management in the region. With its strategic location along Sand Creek and its significant storage capacity, this earth dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for both public safety and recreational enjoyment.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

505

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

SAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

4.77

Nid Storage

1582

Structural Height

43

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

43
       
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.