Pisgah Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pisgah Lake Dam in Indiana is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 32.4 feet. It has a capacity of 2027 acre-feet of water storage, with a normal storage level of 436 acre-feet and a surface area of 62 acres.

Located in Johnson County, Indiana, Pisgah Lake Dam overlooks an unnamed tributary of Sugar Creek. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2009 rated it as fair. The last inspection in June 2018 indicated that the structure is in satisfactory condition, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years.

With a spillway width of 250 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 10,254 cubic feet per second, Pisgah Lake Dam is equipped to handle moderate risk associated with its operations. Although there are no outlet gates, the dam serves as a vital recreational resource for the local community and visitors alike, ensuring both water resource and climate enthusiasts can enjoy its benefits for years to come.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

30.5

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY SUGAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

62

Hydraulic Height

32.4

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

2027

Structural Height

39

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
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.