Edwin Pray Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Edwin Pray Lake Dam, located in Switzerland County, Indiana, is a private earth dam completed in 1972 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 27.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 33 feet, the dam creates a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 69 acre-feet. The dam spans 420 feet in length and has a surface area of 7.5 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2012 revealed poor structural integrity, raising concerns about its long-term safety and effectiveness. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, with the last inspection conducted in February 2017. With an annual inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the environment.
As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and management of dams like Edwin Pray Lake Dam become increasingly critical. With the potential for more frequent and intense precipitation events, the risk of dam failure due to increased water levels and pressures must be carefully assessed and mitigated. By prioritizing regular inspections, maintenance, and risk management measures, stakeholders can ensure the long-term resilience and safety of Edwin Pray Lake Dam in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
27.5 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Edwin Pray Lake Dam
Lafayette Street, Vevay