Sugar Hills Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Sugar Hills Lake Dam in Hancock, Indiana, is a privately-owned structure built in 1972 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, classified as an Earth type with a stone core, stands at a height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 14 feet. It spans 300 feet in length and holds a maximum storage capacity of 764 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 308 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the scenic New Ditch river and covers a surface area of 77.1 acres within a drainage area of 2.84 square miles.
Despite its recreational allure, Sugar Hills Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in October 2020 raised concerns about its structural integrity, with a moderate risk rating assigned. The dam's spillway, with a width of 225 feet, is uncontrolled, posing a potential risk in case of overflow. While the dam lacks outlet gates, it remains under state regulation and inspection, with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources overseeing its maintenance and enforcement.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sugar Hills Lake Dam presents both a recreational haven and a cautionary tale. Its picturesque setting and storied history since 1972 may attract visitors, but its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment serve as reminders of the importance of proper dam maintenance and monitoring. As climate change impacts water infrastructure across the globe, the state-regulated Sugar Hills Lake Dam stands as a symbol of the ongoing challenges in balancing human enjoyment with environmental safety in our water resource management efforts.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
NEW DITCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
77.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
2.84 |
Nid Storage |
764 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
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.
Sugar Hills Lake Dam