Lincoln Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Holly Dam Lake Noel Dam
Last Updated: December 30, 2025
Located in Spencer, Indiana, the Lincoln Lake Dam stands as a crucial structure regulating the flow of an unnamed tributary to Buckhorn Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans 986 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 958 acre-feet and a surface area of 57.76 acres. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2018, the dam poses a high hazard potential, prompting the state regulatory agency, IDNR, to conduct regular inspections, with the last one taking place in October 2018.
The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its critical role in water resource management in the region is evident. With a spillway type categorized as uncontrolled, the dam's maximum discharge capacity is recorded at 2066 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for Lincoln Lake Dam indicates a moderate level of risk, signaling the need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With Congressman Larry Bucshon representing the area, the dam's importance in flood control and water supply for the community cannot be understated.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Lincoln Lake Dam become increasingly vital. With its location in a high-hazard area and the potential risks associated with its condition, the state's commitment to inspection, enforcement, and emergency preparedness for this dam is crucial. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed and advocating for the protection and sustainable management of structures like Lincoln Lake Dam is essential for ensuring the resilience of our water systems in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
986 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BUCKHORN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
57.76 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Drainage Area |
0.78 |
Nid Storage |
958 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Middle Fork Anderson River At Bristow
|
30cfs |
Ohio River At Cannelton Dam At Cannelton
|
101000cfs |
Patoka River At Jasper
|
166cfs |
Patoka River At Winslow
|
170cfs |
Pigeon Creek Near Fort Branch
|
26cfs |
White River At Petersburg
|
4480cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lincoln State Park
|
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Lake Lincoln Campground
|
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Buckhorn Primitive Campground/ Youth Tent Area
|
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Gobbler's Run Non-electric Campground
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Lincoln Lake Dam