Woodland Retreat Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Woodland Retreat Lake in Indiana is a private and state-regulated recreational dam designed by the USDA NRCS, with a low hazard potential but poor condition assessment.
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Summary
Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at 30 feet high and spans 363 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.14 acres. Located in Metamora, Franklin County, it serves as a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
Despite its outdated condition assessment from 2011, Woodland Retreat Lake remains a charming destination for nature lovers seeking a tranquil escape. While it lacks a spillway and outlet gates, its maximum discharge capacity reaches 192 cubic feet per second. The dam's location on an unnamed tributary to Sanes Creek adds to its picturesque setting, attracting visitors who appreciate the beauty of Indiana's water resources. With its historical significance dating back over 60 years, this hidden gem invites exploration and admiration for those interested in the intersection of water management and environmental conservation.
As climate change continues to impact our planet, Woodland Retreat Lake serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural resources and maintaining infrastructure for future generations to enjoy. Despite its high risk assessment level, the dam's role in providing recreational opportunities underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and potential updates to ensure its longevity and safety. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this idyllic retreat offers a glimpse into the delicate balance between human intervention and the natural world, making it a valuable site for both appreciation and reflection.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
363 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY SANES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.14 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
0.25 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Woodland Retreat Lake