Vernon Payne Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Vernon Payne Lake Dam, located in Cutler, Indiana, stands as a crucial structure for water supply and recreational purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam spans 250 feet in length and reaches a height of 27 feet, with a hydraulic height of 29 feet. The dam holds a normal storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.2 acres, serving as a vital resource for the surrounding community and wildlife.
Despite its significance, the dam's condition assessment was rated as poor in 2010, with a hazard potential deemed low. With the last inspection conducted in June 2016, ongoing maintenance and improvements are necessary to ensure the dam's safety and effectiveness. The surrounding area, including an unnamed tributary of Wildcat Creek, relies on the proper functioning of Vernon Payne Lake Dam for water supply and flood control, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard this essential infrastructure.
With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, it is imperative for the relevant regulatory agencies, including the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, to prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of Vernon Payne Lake Dam to mitigate potential hazards and ensure its long-term sustainability. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed and advocating for the protection of crucial structures like Vernon Payne Lake Dam is vital in safeguarding our environment and communities for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY WILDCAT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wildcat Creek At Owasco
|
52cfs |
Deer Creek Near Delphi
|
58cfs |
South Fork Wildcat Creek Near Lafayette
|
57cfs |
Tippecanoe River Near Delphi
|
700cfs |
Wildcat Creek Near Lafayette
|
126cfs |
Wabash River At Lafayette Ind
|
1310cfs |
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.
Vernon Payne Lake Dam