Country Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Country Lake Dam, also known as Big Bass Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in the Underwood area of Indiana.


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Summary

Built in 1954 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.7 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. Situated on an unnamed tributary of the West Fork Silver Creek, the dam has a storage capacity of 198 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13 acres.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Country Lake Dam has been identified as having a significant hazard potential, with a high risk level. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, making it susceptible to overflow during periods of high discharge. The last inspection in January 2019 revealed that the dam meets state regulations and undergoes regular inspections. However, there is a need for an updated emergency action plan to ensure adequate response in case of a breach.

With its picturesque location and historical significance in the area, Country Lake Dam presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's safety, the site remains a focal point for understanding the delicate balance between water management, recreational activities, and environmental conservation in Indiana's Clark County.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

30.7

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY WEST FORK SILVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

198

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

31
       
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.