Little Raccoon Dam No. 1 - Albright Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Little Raccoon Dam No.
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Summary
1, also known as Albright Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Parke, Indiana, on the Weisner Creek. Built in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the area. With a height of 42 feet and a length of 850 feet, it holds a normal storage capacity of 181 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 32 acres.
The dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in December 2018. Classified as having a high hazard potential and fair condition, the dam poses a moderate risk level according to the latest assessment. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 75 feet and uses slide (sluice gate) outlet gates for water discharge, ensuring effective flood control measures for the surrounding area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the engineering and regulatory aspects of Little Raccoon Dam No. 1 - Albright. With its strategic location and design features, this essential infrastructure plays a crucial role in managing flood risks and protecting the local community. The collaboration between local government and federal agencies underscores the importance of effective water resource management in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in the region.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
WEISNER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Drainage Area |
4.49 |
Nid Storage |
1971 |
Structural Height |
42 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Raccoon Creek At Coxville
|
86cfs |
Wabash River At Montezuma
|
1500cfs |
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
1380cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek Near Fincastle Ind
|
89cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
145cfs |
Big Walnut Creek Near Roachdale
|
3cfs |
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.
Little Raccoon Dam No. 1 - Albright