Indian Lakes Preserve Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Indian Lakes Preserve Dam, also known as Tall Oaks Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Ripley, Indiana.


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Summary

Completed in 1973, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 1,215 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.45 square miles, the dam safeguards the surrounding area from potential flooding while also offering a serene environment for outdoor activities.

Managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the Indian Lakes Preserve Dam has a spillway width of 200 feet and is equipped with a slide gate for water release. Regular inspections have deemed the dam's condition as satisfactory, though its hazard potential is classified as high. Despite this, the risk assessment remains moderate, indicating a level of preparedness for potential emergencies. With a maximum discharge of 5,774 cubic feet per second, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Located along an unnamed tributary of Pipe Creek, the Indian Lakes Preserve Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and environmental conservation. Its impact on the local ecosystem and water resources underscores the importance of sustainable management practices in the face of evolving climate patterns. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates continue to monitor and protect these vital structures, the Indian Lakes Preserve Dam serves as a beacon of resilience and recreation in the heart of Indiana's natural landscape.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

753

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY PIPE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

52

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

1.45

Nid Storage

1215

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.