Delaney Creek Dam No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Delaney Creek Dam No.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

2, also known as Menke Lake, is a crucial water resource infrastructure located in Kossuth, Indiana. Constructed in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 41 feet and spans 700 feet across an unnamed tributary of Delaney Creek. With a storage capacity of 977 acre-feet, the dam primarily serves as a flood risk reduction measure for the area.

Despite its importance in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks, Delaney Creek Dam No. 2 is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The dam's last inspection in 2018 revealed maintenance issues, highlighting the urgent need for repairs and upgrades to ensure its structural integrity. The regulatory oversight by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources signifies the state's commitment to enforcing safety standards and protecting communities downstream.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Delaney Creek Dam No. 2 underscores the critical role of infrastructure in safeguarding against natural disasters. With a moderate risk assessment score, the dam's management and maintenance are key to preventing potential hazards and ensuring the safety of residents in Washington County, Indiana. A collaborative effort involving government agencies and local stakeholders is essential to address the dam's current condition and enhance its resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY DELANEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

2.35

Nid Storage

977

Structural Height

41

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

41
       
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.