Timber Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Timber Lake Dam, located in Jackson, Indiana, was completed in 1948 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 40 feet and stretching 300 feet in length, this earth dam has a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8.01 acres. With a drainage area of 0.12 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 104 cubic feet per second, Timber Lake Dam provides a tranquil and scenic backdrop for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

Despite its recreational appeal, Timber Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition as of the last assessment in July 2014. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures remain unclear, raising concerns about the level of preparedness in case of a potential hazard. With the last inspection conducted in October 1996 and no recent updates on emergency protocols, there is a pressing need for enhanced monitoring and management of this critical infrastructure to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of its ecological balance.

As a private-owned structure with no federal oversight or regulation, Timber Lake Dam's maintenance and safety protocols rely heavily on the diligence of its owners. Given its strategic location and the potential risks associated with its high hazard classification, stakeholders and water resource enthusiasts are encouraged to advocate for increased attention and resources to safeguard the integrity of Timber Lake Dam and mitigate any potential threats to the environment and public safety.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

40

Surface Area

8.01

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

240

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.