Little Raccoon Dam No. 18 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Little Raccoon Dam No.
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Summary
18, also known as Tilton Lake, is a key structure located in Parke, Indiana, designed by the USDA NRCS with a focus on flood risk reduction. Completed in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and a length of 770 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 979 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of Little Raccoon Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a drainage area of 2.8 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 163 acre-feet.
Despite its important role in flood risk reduction, Little Raccoon Dam No. 18 is currently rated as having a poor condition, with a hazard potential deemed as low. The last inspection date in October 2015 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam. With a risk assessment categorizing it as high, there is a pressing need for proper risk management measures and maintenance to mitigate potential threats and ensure the continued functionality of this vital water resource infrastructure in Indiana.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and advocate for the maintenance and improvement of structures like Little Raccoon Dam No. 18 to safeguard communities and ecosystems from the impacts of flooding and water scarcity. With the involvement of regulatory agencies like the IDNR and USDA NRCS, there is an opportunity to enhance the resilience and effectiveness of this dam while ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
770 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY LITTLE RACCOON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Hydraulic Height |
39 |
Drainage Area |
2.8 |
Nid Storage |
979 |
Structural Height |
39 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Raccoon Creek At Coxville
|
91cfs |
Wabash River At Montezuma
|
2160cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek Near Fincastle Ind
|
89cfs |
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
2330cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
171cfs |
Big Walnut Creek Near Roachdale
|
4cfs |
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. 18