Little Raccoon Dam No. 16 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Little Raccoon Dam No.


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Summary

16, also known as Tyler Lake, is a key structure located in Parke, Indiana, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1969 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Leatherwood Branch. This earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet, with a length of 910 feet, and a maximum storage capacity of 1215 acre-feet. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 75 feet, serving a drainage area of 4.16 square miles.

Despite its critical role in flood risk management, Little Raccoon Dam No. 16 is currently assessed as having poor structural condition, with a low hazard potential but a moderate risk rating. The last inspection date was in 2014, and the dam is scheduled for inspection every 5 years. The dam's location in Catlin-Offstream, Indiana, highlights its importance in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, efforts are underway to ensure the dam's continued safety and effectiveness in safeguarding the community from water-related risks.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

910

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

LEATHERWOOD BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18.6

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

4.16

Nid Storage

1215

Structural Height

41

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

41
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.