Hood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hood Lake Dam, located in Johnson County, Indiana, stands as a crucial structure regulating the flow of an unnamed tributary to Prince Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1968 by FREESE AND ASSOCIATES, this private-owned Earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. With a height of 63 feet and a hydraulic height of 51 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 198 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13 acres.

Despite its scenic appeal, Hood Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of October 2004. The dam's spillway, with a width of 40 feet, is uncontrolled, and its maximum discharge capacity reaches 1125 cubic feet per second. The dam's last inspection occurred on November 21, 2021, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 2 years. Although the risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, proactive risk management measures are crucial to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor Hood Lake Dam's condition, there is a pressing need for ongoing maintenance and potential rehabilitation to mitigate hazards and safeguard the surrounding communities. With its strategic location within a delicate ecosystem, the dam's functionality and safety are paramount in sustaining the local water resources and recreational opportunities. Collaboration between private owners, state regulatory agencies, and stakeholders is essential in implementing effective risk management strategies and ensuring the long-term viability of Hood Lake Dam.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

63

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY PRINCE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

51

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

198

Structural Height

63

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

63
       
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.