Kickapoo Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Kickapoo Lake Dam, also known as Lake Kickapoo Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Sullivan, Indiana.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Big Branch river. With a storage capacity of 7,538 acre-feet and a surface area of 378 acres, Kickapoo Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite its important function, Kickapoo Lake Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in June 2020 revealed the dam's deteriorating state, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and potential risk management measures. The dam lacks spillways and outlet gates, further emphasizing the importance of proactive monitoring and upkeep to ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in flood control.

Given its high risk assessment and poor condition, Kickapoo Lake Dam presents a pressing concern for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its location in a populated area and the potential for significant consequences in the event of failure, there is a need for increased attention and investment in the maintenance and rehabilitation of this crucial infrastructure to safeguard the surrounding communities and water resources.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

2750

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

BIG BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

378

Hydraulic Height

48

Drainage Area

4.75

Nid Storage

7538

Structural Height

54

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

54
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.