Cherry Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Cherry Lake Dam, located in Monroe, Indiana, is a state-regulated structure built in 1940 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at 20 feet high with a hydraulic height of 31 feet, impounds the waters of Little Indian Creek to create a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. The dam's surface area spans 2.57 acres and serves as a popular recreational spot for water enthusiasts in the area.

Despite its significance for recreation, Cherry Lake Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in 2018 revealed the dam's deteriorating state, prompting concerns about its safety and reliability. With a risk assessment rating of high (2), the dam's structural integrity and safety measures are being closely monitored to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable water management practices, the condition of Cherry Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to prevent potential hazards. With its historical significance and recreational value, efforts to address the dam's poor condition and implement risk management measures are crucial to safeguarding both the environment and the local community.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

263

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

LITTLE INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.57

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

42

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

31
       
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.