Mercer Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beechwood Lake Dam Jackson Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Mercer Lake Dam, located in Greene County, Indiana, was completed in 1970 and serves as a recreational site with a primary purpose of providing leisure activities for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
The dam, classified as an Earth type with a height of 20 feet and a length of 355 feet, has a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 353 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition since its last inspection in 1994.
The dam, owned privately, is not regulated by the state and does not require permitting, inspection, or enforcement actions. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are unclear, its location offers a serene environment for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Water enthusiasts can explore the tranquil waters of Mercer Lake and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape in this unassuming yet vital water resource structure.
With a rich history dating back over 50 years, Mercer Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water management in sustaining natural ecosystems and supporting outdoor recreation. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and maintenance of structures like Mercer Lake Dam become increasingly crucial in ensuring sustainable water use for future generations of enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
355 |
Dam Height |
20 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
170 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River At Newberry
|
2030cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
171cfs |
Mill Creek Near Cataract
|
17cfs |
East Fork White River At Shoals
|
4940cfs |
Busseron Creek Near Carlisle
|
95cfs |
East Fork White River Near Bedford
|
3310cfs |
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.
Mercer Lake Dam