University Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

University Lake Dam, located in Monroe, Indiana, is a state-regulated structure on Griffy Creek with a primary purpose that remains unspecified.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1910, this Multi-Arch dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans 270 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, last inspected in 2017 with a recommended inspection frequency of every five years.

The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, posing a risk of high inundation in the event of a failure. With a risk assessment rating of 2 on a scale of 1 to 4, there is a pressing need for improved risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment. The dam's location, surrounded by a surface area of 4.93 acres and a drainage area of 0.29 square miles, underscores the importance of maintaining the structural integrity and stability of this critical water resource infrastructure.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, University Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in managing aging infrastructure and ensuring the safety and resilience of our water systems. With state jurisdiction and regulation by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the upkeep and monitoring of this dam to mitigate potential risks and protect the surrounding area from the threat of flooding and structural failure.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

GRIFFY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Multi-Arch

Surface Area

4.93

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

0.29

Nid Storage

97

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.