Delaney Creek Dam No. 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Delaney Creek Dam No.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
4, also known as Spurgeon Lake, is a vital water resource structure located in Washington County, Indiana. Built in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along an unnamed tributary of Delaney Creek. With a height of 29 feet and a length of 950 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 626 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres.
Despite its importance in mitigating flood risks, Delaney Creek Dam No. 4 is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The last inspection in 2016 revealed a need for improvements to ensure the continued effectiveness and safety of the structure. While the dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, it has a maximum discharge capacity of 1185 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 2.44 square miles, highlighting the significance of this dam in managing water flow and protecting the community from potential flooding events.
Given its critical role in flood risk reduction, the condition assessment and risk management of Delaney Creek Dam No. 4 are key considerations for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With the potential for high risk due to its condition and age, ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and potential upgrades are essential to ensure the long-term resilience and effectiveness of this important infrastructure. As a locally owned and regulated structure, collaboration between stakeholders and regulatory agencies will be crucial in addressing any identified issues and safeguarding the surrounding area from the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
950 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY DELANEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
2.44 |
Nid Storage |
626 |
Structural Height |
39 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Delaney Creek Park
|
||
Starve Hollow State Rec Area
|
||
Jackson - Washington State Forest
|
Delaney Creek Dam No. 4
County Road 775 South, Vallonia