Baker Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Baker Lake Dam, also known as Holland Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Brown County, Indiana.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans 490 feet in length, with a primary purpose of water supply. The dam, situated on an unnamed tributary of Big Thunder Creek, has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.5 acres.

Despite its significant contribution to water supply and recreation, Baker Lake Dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. Inspected every two years, the dam's last assessment in 2007 revealed its deteriorating state. With an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, there are concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential emergencies. Although the risk assessment is moderate, there is a need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of Baker Lake Dam.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Baker Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned structure with critical implications for water supply and safety. With its location in a picturesque natural setting, the dam's condition assessment and risk potential raise important questions about the management and maintenance of aging infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. As discussions around climate resilience and water management continue to gain importance, Baker Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with maintaining essential water resources for communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BIG THUNDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.5

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

0.04

Nid Storage

57

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

31
       
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.