Middle Fork Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Middle Fork Lake Dam, located in Decatur, Indiana, serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
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Summary
Completed in 1943, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 1,013 acre-feet, providing a crucial source of water for the region. Situated on the Middle Fork Clifty Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and managing flood risk in the area.
Despite its importance, Middle Fork Lake Dam is currently classified as having a poor condition assessment, with a high risk level of 2. This designation highlights the need for ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure the dam's continued effectiveness in water management and flood control. With a low hazard potential, the dam still poses a risk that requires attention to mitigate any potential safety concerns.
As a privately owned structure, Middle Fork Lake Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. With its strategic location and critical role in water resource management, efforts to improve the dam's condition and reduce risk are essential to safeguarding both the environment and local communities that rely on its water supply.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE FORK CLIFTY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
7.3 |
Nid Storage |
1013 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clifty Creek At Hartsville
|
27cfs |
Flatrock River At St. Paul
|
86cfs |
Haw Creek Near Clifford
|
11cfs |
Flatrock River At Columbus
|
178cfs |
East Fork White River At Columbus
|
602cfs |
Brush Creek Near Nebraska
|
2cfs |
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.
Middle Fork Lake Dam