Tall Oaks Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Tall Oaks Lake Dam in Morgan County, Indiana, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 265 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 92 acre-feet. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary of the South Prong Stotts Creek, with a drainage area of 0.22 square miles and a surface area of 7 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Tall Oaks Lake Dam is in poor condition as of the last assessment in 2015. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, posing a high risk of failure in case of extreme weather events or increased water flow. With a risk assessment rating of 2 (high), it is crucial for the private owner and state regulatory agency, IDNR, to ensure proper maintenance and inspection of the dam to mitigate potential risks to surrounding communities and the environment.

As a popular recreational spot, Tall Oaks Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper management and upkeep of water infrastructure. It is imperative that the owner and regulatory agencies work together to address the dam's poor condition, implement necessary risk management measures, and prioritize the safety of the surrounding area. Water resource and climate enthusiasts should keep a close eye on the developments at Tall Oaks Lake Dam to ensure its long-term resilience and sustainability.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY SOUTH PRONG STOTTS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

92

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

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.