Sylvan Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sylvan Lake Dam in Noble, Indiana, stands as a testament to the rich history of water resource management in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1839, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation, with a focus on providing a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. The dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 2730 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 7400 acre-feet.

Located on an unnamed tributary of the North Branch, the dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. With a controlled spillway and Tainter outlet gates, the dam has been assessed to have a hazard potential of high but is currently in fair condition. Despite its age, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of the surrounding community. The risk assessment for the dam indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards.

Sylvan Lake Dam serves as a vital component of the water infrastructure in the area, providing not only recreational opportunities but also essential flood control measures. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and upkeep of dams like Sylvan Lake Dam become increasingly crucial. With a rich history and a significant role in the local ecosystem, Sylvan Lake Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1839

Dam Length

2730

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY NORTH BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

630

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

33.3

Nid Storage

7400

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.