Indian Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Indian Lake Dam, located in Marion, Indiana, is a private dam built in 1928 for recreational purposes on Indian Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 24 feet, with a hydraulic height of 25.5 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, this earth dam with a buttress core spans 575 feet in length. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 323 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 859 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 25.4 square miles.

Despite its age, Indian Lake Dam has been identified as having a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, with its last inspection conducted in October 2020. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled with a width of 75 feet, has a maximum discharge capacity of 4778 cubic feet per second. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan preparedness are currently undocumented. Given its location and condition, continued monitoring and potential improvements may be necessary to ensure the safety and sustainability of this recreational water resource for water and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

575

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

57

Hydraulic Height

25.5

Drainage Area

25.4

Nid Storage

859

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.