Whitetail Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whitetail Lake Dam, also known as Olinger Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Dubois, Indiana.


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Summary

Built in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans 840 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 444 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 22.5 acres, with a drainage area of 0.56 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Whitetail Lake Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection, with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's condition assessment in 2016 deemed it to be in fair condition, with a regular inspection frequency of every 5 years. Even though the risk assessment categorizes it as having a high risk level (2), the dam has not undergone any modifications or received emergency action plan (EAP) updates in recent years.

Situated on an unnamed tributary of Hall Creek, Whitetail Lake Dam provides a picturesque setting for recreational activities in the area. With its serene surroundings and ample storage capacity, this dam serves as a vital resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. Its maintenance and regulatory oversight ensure the safety and sustainability of its operations, contributing to the overall ecological balance of the region.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

840

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY HALL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22.5

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

0.56

Nid Storage

444

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

40
       
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.