Turtle Creek Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Turtle Creek Lake Dam, located in Sullivan, Indiana, is a private dam regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 600 feet across Turtle Creek. With a storage capacity of 318 acre-feet and a surface area of 13.93 acres, the dam serves as a key water resource for the surrounding area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2011 revealed poor structural integrity. With a high risk rating of 2, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented. The last inspection in 2017 highlighted the urgent need for maintenance and repairs to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Turtle Creek Lake Dam presents a unique case study in the challenges of maintaining aging infrastructure in the face of increasing risks associated with climate change. As efforts continue to address the dam's structural issues and mitigate potential hazards, the importance of proactive management and investment in our water systems is underscored.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TURTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.93 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
1.06 |
Nid Storage |
318 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wabash River At Riverton Ind
|
1870cfs |
Busseron Creek Near Carlisle
|
452cfs |
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
1770cfs |
North Fork Embarras River Near Oblong
|
5cfs |
White River At Newberry
|
2530cfs |
Embarras River At Lawrenceville
|
120cfs |
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.
Turtle Creek Lake Dam
Sullivan County