Miller Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Miller Lake Dam, located in Brown County, Indiana, serves as a vital recreational resource for water enthusiasts in the area.


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Summary

Constructed in 1952, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 198 feet in length, creating a serene 1.65-acre lake that offers activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Despite its primary purpose being recreation, the dam's high hazard potential and poor condition assessment highlight the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability.

Managed by a private owner, Miller Lake Dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. The dam's spillway, with a width of 13 feet, is uncontrolled, while the maximum discharge capacity is 63 cubic feet per second. The dam's storage capacity of 40 acre-feet provides a critical water source for the surrounding area, with a drainage area of 0.07 square miles. However, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, emphasizing the importance of implementing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and protect the community.

In light of its historical significance and environmental impact, Miller Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. The dam's presence not only enhances the local ecosystem but also provides a recreational haven for residents and visitors alike. As efforts continue to maintain and improve the dam's infrastructure, stakeholders must prioritize sustainable practices to safeguard this valuable water resource for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

198

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY JACKSON BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.65

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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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.