Lake Gibson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Gibson Dam, located in Gibson, Indiana, is a privately owned structure that serves as a conservation dam along an unnamed tributary of Indian Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1933, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance.
The dam, managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, is regulated and permitted by the state, ensuring compliance with safety standards and inspection protocols. While the dam does not feature a spillway, its drainage area covers 0.09 square miles, with a surface area of 9.06 acres. The risk assessment for Lake Gibson Dam rates it as high (2), emphasizing the importance of implementing appropriate risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
With the absence of outlet gates and locks, Lake Gibson Dam presents both challenges and opportunities for enhancing its safety and functionality. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the dam's resilience and adaptability will be crucial in safeguarding against extreme weather events and ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future. By prioritizing maintenance, monitoring, and risk mitigation strategies, Lake Gibson Dam can continue to fulfill its vital role in water conservation and flood control efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.06 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
99 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Patoka River Near Princeton
|
714cfs |
Pigeon Creek Near Fort Branch
|
2cfs |
Wabash River At Mt. Carmel
|
8800cfs |
White River At Petersburg
|
3540cfs |
Patoka River At Winslow
|
643cfs |
White River Above Petersburg
|
1220cfs |
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.
Lake Gibson Dam