Starve Hollow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Starve Hollow Lake Dam, located in Jackson County, Indiana, was completed in 1938 and serves as a vital recreational resource for the state.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 39 feet, creates a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 753 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 3036 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Mill Creek and covers a surface area of 132.9 acres, offering visitors a picturesque setting for various water-based activities.

Managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Starve Hollow Lake Dam has a fair condition assessment and a high hazard potential, indicating the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The dam's spillway, classified as uncontrolled, has a maximum discharge capacity of 6505 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans are not clearly documented, leaving room for improvement in ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure.

With its historical significance and contribution to the local ecosystem, Starve Hollow Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for the continued monitoring and maintenance of such vital infrastructure to protect both public safety and environmental sustainability for future generations.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

132.9

Hydraulic Height

39

Drainage Area

6.67

Nid Storage

3036

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
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.