Palestine Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Palestine Lake Dam, located in Kosciusko County, Indiana, serves as a vital recreational area along Trimble Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1837, this concrete dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 150 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 1,170 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1,460 acre-feet. With a surface area of 290 acres and a drainage area of 32.4 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water-based recreational activities in the region.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Palestine Lake Dam is facing challenges with its condition assessment rated as poor and a hazard potential deemed significant. The last inspection conducted in October 2016 revealed the need for improvements and maintenance to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. The dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of implementing effective risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the well-being of the surrounding community and environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the status of Palestine Lake Dam and advocate for necessary actions to address its current condition and safety concerns. By staying informed about the dam's maintenance and risk management measures, we can contribute to the preservation of this important water infrastructure and safeguard it for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1837

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TRIMBLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

290

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

32.4

Nid Storage

1460

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.