Little Raccoon Dam No. 22 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Little Raccoon Dam No.
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Summary
22, also known as Waltz Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Parke, Indiana. Built in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the unnamed tributary Sunderland Branch. With a storage capacity of 161 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Despite its fair condition assessment in 2012, Little Raccoon Dam No. 22 poses a significant hazard potential, with a high risk rating of 2. Regular inspections are carried out by the state regulatory agency, IDNR, to ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in flood risk reduction. The dam's location in Catlin, Indiana, and its presence in the Louisville District highlight its importance in the local water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
As a key component of the water infrastructure in Parke County, Little Raccoon Dam No. 22 continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the community from flooding events. With a focus on flood risk reduction, this earth dam stands as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to manage water resources effectively and adapt to changing climate conditions. Its design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to sustainable water management practices and the importance of infrastructure in climate resilience initiatives.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY SUNDERLAND BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
0.55 |
Nid Storage |
161 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Raccoon Creek At Coxville
|
115cfs |
Wabash River At Montezuma
|
1310cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek Near Fincastle Ind
|
89cfs |
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
1180cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
145cfs |
Big Walnut Creek Near Roachdale
|
2cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Rockville Lake County Park
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Raccoon - Cecil M. Harden Lake
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Turkey Run State Park Campground
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Turkey Run State Park
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Little Raccoon Dam No. 22