Magness Lake Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Magness Lake Dam #1, located in Brown County, Indiana, was completed in 1962 and serves as a recreational area for water enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, of Earth type construction with a structural height of 28 feet and a length of 225 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is recreation, offering a serene 3.7-acre surface area for activities such as fishing and boating.

Despite its recreational appeal, Magness Lake Dam #1 poses a hazard potential rated as high, with a poor condition assessment as of 2007. The dam is state-regulated and inspected, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. It is situated on an unnamed tributary of Owl Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, with a moderate risk assessment of 3.

While Magness Lake Dam #1 provides a picturesque setting for outdoor enjoyment, its high hazard potential and poor condition warrant attention from authorities and stakeholders to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to mitigate risks and preserve this water resource for future generations of climate and water enthusiasts to enjoy.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY OWL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.7

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

61

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.