Potato Creek State Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Potato Creek State Park Dam, also known as Worster Lake, is a key recreational area in Indiana, providing a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.


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Summary

This earth-type dam, completed in 1977, stands at 42 feet tall and spans 1500 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 9000 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

With a high hazard potential but a fair condition assessment as of June 2018, the Potato Creek State Park Dam poses moderate risk, warranting ongoing risk management measures. The dam's spillway, classified as uncontrolled, allows for a maximum discharge of 10770 cubic feet per second. While the dam primarily serves recreational purposes, it also plays a crucial role in managing the water levels of the Potato Creek, enhancing the overall ecological health of the area.

Located in St. Joseph County, Indiana, Potato Creek State Park Dam offers a serene escape for visitors seeking outdoor adventure and natural beauty. As water levels are carefully managed and the dam is closely monitored for safety, enthusiasts can continue to enjoy the benefits of this essential water resource while appreciating the delicate balance between human recreation and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

POTATO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

345

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

11.8

Nid Storage

9000

Structural Height

42

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.