Lake In The Woods Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Lake In The Woods Dam, located in Clay, Indiana, stands as a significant structure along the East Fork Birch Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1925, this private-owned dam boasts a height of 18 feet and a length of 460 feet, providing a storage capacity of 223 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 83 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge rate of 240 cubic feet per second.

With a poor condition assessment and a significant hazard potential, Lake In The Woods Dam is in need of attention to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The last inspection in January 2021 highlighted the dam's deteriorating state, emphasizing the urgency for maintenance and repair. Its risk assessment is classified as high, signaling the need for proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard surrounding communities.

As a crucial component of the local water resource infrastructure, Lake In The Woods Dam plays a vital role in flood control and water storage. However, its current condition and risk level necessitate immediate action to address safety concerns and ensure the longevity of this essential structure. Climate and water resource enthusiasts are encouraged to monitor developments regarding the dam's maintenance and risk management strategies to uphold its integrity and protect the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

EAST FORK BIRCH CREEK

Surface Area

26

Drainage Area

3.11

Nid Storage

223

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.