Yellowwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Yellowwood Lake Dam, located in Brown, Indiana, is a state-regulated structure constructed in 1939 by the USDA - Resettlement Administration.


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Summary

This earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes on Yellowwood Lake, with a height of 41 feet and a length of 800 feet. The dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 3,678 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 138 acres, with a drainage area of 6.9 square miles, making it a crucial water resource for the region.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 190 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 17,494 cubic feet per second. Despite being deemed to have a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains fair as of the last inspection in June 2018. With a moderate risk rating, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are currently unspecified. Yellowwood Lake Dam stands as a significant structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering both recreational opportunities and essential flood control functions for the area.

Overall, Yellowwood Lake Dam presents a fascinating blend of historical significance, recreational value, and vital water management infrastructure in the heart of Indiana. As a state-regulated earth dam with an impressive storage capacity and moderate risk assessment, the dam serves as a testament to the lasting impact of New Deal-era projects on water resources and climate resilience. Whether exploring its scenic surroundings or studying its hydraulic characteristics, Yellowwood Lake Dam is sure to captivate the interest of enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of water resources and climate dynamics in the region.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

JACKSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

138

Hydraulic Height

39.9

Drainage Area

6.9

Nid Storage

3678

Structural Height

56.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

57
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.