Wood Lake Dam, located in Ripley County, Indiana, is a private earth dam constructed in 1960 by the USDA NRCS.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 50 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 36.5 acres for activities such as fishing and boating on the INDIAN KENTUCK CREEK. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential but is assessed to be in poor condition, last inspected in April 2016.
With a normal storage capacity of 175 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 247 acre-feet, Wood Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing the water resources in the region. However, its risk assessment is rated as high (2), indicating the need for increased monitoring and potential maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, presenting unique challenges in its operation and management.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, enthusiasts and stakeholders must pay attention to the condition and management of dams like Wood Lake. With the potential for increased extreme weather events and changing hydrological patterns, proper monitoring and maintenance of these structures are essential to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the sustainable use of water resources for recreational and environmental purposes.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1350 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
INDIAN KENTUCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
247 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
50 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Campground C
|
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Youth Tent Area
|
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Campground B
|
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Versailles State Park
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Campground A
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