Rainbow Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Of The Woods Dam Meyer Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Rainbow Lake Dam, located in Adams, Indiana, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1945, this earthen dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 1600 feet, with a storage capacity of 243 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of the Wabash River, the dam has a low hazard potential but has been assessed to be in poor condition as of 2013.
Despite its status as a privately owned dam, Rainbow Lake Dam falls under state regulation and inspection by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, which may pose challenges during periods of high discharge. The risk assessment for the dam indicates a high level of risk, corresponding to a hazard potential rating of 2. With its structural deficiencies and high risk profile, the management of Rainbow Lake Dam remains a critical concern for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY WABASH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
55.68 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.28 |
Nid Storage |
243 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Rainbow Lake Dam