Webster Lake Dam - East Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located on the Tippecanoe River in Kosciusko, Indiana, the Webster Lake Dam - East is a historic gravity dam completed in 1835 primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 12 feet and a length of 38 feet, the dam provides a surface area of 774 acres and a drainage area of 49.2 square miles. Despite its age, the dam has a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, with the last inspection in October 2017 revealing its need for significant maintenance and repairs.

Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a maximum storage capacity of 7,545 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 5,389 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in the area. However, its high risk assessment and poor condition highlight the need for immediate attention and potential risk management measures to prevent any potential hazards or failures in the future.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and advocate for the maintenance and improvement of critical infrastructure like the Webster Lake Dam - East to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the sustainability of water resources. By staying informed about its condition, regulatory oversight, and potential risks, enthusiasts can play a vital role in supporting efforts to address the dam's maintenance needs and protect the environment and public safety for future generations.

Year Completed

1835

Dam Length

38

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TIPPECANOE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

774

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

49.2

Nid Storage

7545

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.