Farmer Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Vigo, Indiana, Farmer Lake Dam, also known as Wesley F.
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Summary
Farmer Upper Dam, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Completed in 1960, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a height of 41 feet and a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet, the dam creates a surface area of 10 acres along an unnamed tributary of the Wabash River.
Despite its recreational benefits, Farmer Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The dam's last inspection in May 2020 revealed a need for maintenance and repair to ensure the safety of surrounding communities. With a high risk assessment rating, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented swiftly. The absence of a spillway and outlet gates further adds to the dam's vulnerability in the event of excess water flow.
As water levels continue to fluctuate and climate patterns evolve, the maintenance and monitoring of Farmer Lake Dam become crucial for the safety of residents and the preservation of the surrounding environment. With its strategic location in the Louisville District and its impact on the local drainage area, proactive measures must be taken to address the dam's structural deficiencies and mitigate potential risks. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate sustainability, it is imperative to advocate for the necessary upgrades and improvements to ensure the long-term resilience of Farmer Lake Dam.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY WABASH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.41 |
Nid Storage |
170 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
2190cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek At Coxville
|
128cfs |
Wabash River At Montezuma
|
2050cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
145cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek Near Fincastle Ind
|
89cfs |
Mill Creek Near Cataract
|
160cfs |
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.
Farmer Lake Dam