Hart Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Hart Lake Dam, located in Morgan County, Indiana, is a local government-owned structure built in 1950 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam, with a height of 34 feet and a length of 450 feet, holds back the waters of the Dry Fork of Sycamore Creek, creating a surface area of 21.14 acres and a storage capacity of 404 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk level and is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
The dam features a valve outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway, with a maximum discharge capacity of 570 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 1.42 square miles, providing valuable water resources for the region. The dam's last inspection in 2012 revealed a need for regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, Hart Lake Dam serves as both a vital infrastructure asset and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the importance of properly maintaining and managing dams like Hart Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial. By staying informed about the dam's condition, regulatory oversight, and risk management measures, water resource and climate enthusiasts can play a role in promoting sustainable practices and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
DRY FORK OF SYCAMORE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.14 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Drainage Area |
1.42 |
Nid Storage |
404 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hart Lake Dam