Buffalo Trace Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Palmyra Lake Dam Lime Ridge Dam
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Buffalo Trace Lake Dam, located in Palmyra, Indiana, is a key structure managed by the local government for flood risk reduction along the unnamed tributary of the South Fork Blue River.
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Summary
Built in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 14 feet, with a length of 420 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 292 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the region.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Buffalo Trace Lake Dam is currently in fair condition, with the last inspection in 2019. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 76 feet, and it has no outlet gates. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3), indicating a level of caution in its management and maintenance. With a drainage area of 0.55 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding communities from flooding events.
As a part of the flood risk reduction infrastructure overseen by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Buffalo Trace Lake Dam stands as a vital asset in safeguarding the local area from potential water-related disasters. Its presence highlights the importance of effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY SOUTH FORK BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
0.55 |
Nid Storage |
292 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Buffalo Trace Lake Dam