Crainsboro Lake Dam, located in Brown, Indiana, is a privately owned structure built in 1963 primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans 350 feet in length, creating a surface area of 10.9 acres with a maximum storage capacity of 116 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of North Fork Salt Creek, the dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high risk level of 2. The last inspection in 2017 revealed the need for maintenance and potential risk management measures. With no spillway and outlet gates, the dam relies on the surrounding topography for water discharge. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, its risk level underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to protect both the environment and nearby communities.
As a popular recreational spot, Crainsboro Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and climate resilience. Its location within the Louisville District and association with the North Fork Salt Creek watershed highlights the interconnectedness of water infrastructure and environmental sustainability. The ongoing challenges faced by the dam in terms of condition assessment and risk management underscore the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and stability of this essential water resource in Indiana.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY NORTH FORK SALT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
116 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Happy Hollow’s Children Camp
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Brown County State Park
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Camp Atterbury Military
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Johnson County Park
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Heflen Co Park
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Yellowwood State Forest
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