Jackson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mercer Lake Dam Beechwood Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Jackson Lake Dam, located in Greene County, Indiana, is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 400 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 166 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition and was last assessed in 2006, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years.
Situated on an unnamed tributary of Richland Creek, Jackson Lake Dam lacks a spillway but has a normal storage capacity of 133 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13.2 acres. The dam has a high risk assessment rating due to its condition, emphasizing the need for proper risk management measures. Although no emergency action plan has been prepared, the structure is regulated and inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, ensuring compliance with state permitting and enforcement regulations.
For those interested in water resource and climate issues, Jackson Lake Dam provides a unique case study of a privately owned recreational dam facing maintenance challenges. Despite its picturesque location, the dam's poor condition and high risk assessment underscore the importance of regular inspections and proper risk management to ensure the safety of both the structure and the surrounding environment. As enthusiasts continue to monitor developments at Jackson Lake Dam, the need for proactive measures to address its condition becomes increasingly imperative in safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related risks in the region.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY RICHLAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.21 |
Nid Storage |
166 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River At Newberry
|
2030cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
171cfs |
Mill Creek Near Cataract
|
17cfs |
East Fork White River At Shoals
|
4940cfs |
Busseron Creek Near Carlisle
|
95cfs |
East Fork White River Near Bedford
|
3310cfs |
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.
Jackson Lake Dam