Summit Lake State Park - Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Summit Lake State Park - Upper Dam, also known as the Secondary Dam On Summit Lake, is a captivating destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Henry, Indiana.
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Summary
Built in 1980 and designed by the USDA NRCS, this state-owned dam serves primarily as a fish and wildlife pond, providing a tranquil habitat for various species of aquatic life. The dam stands at a height of 16 feet, with a length of 1650 feet, and has a maximum storage capacity of 853 acre-feet.
Located in New Castle, Indiana, Summit Lake State Park - Upper Dam is situated on the Sweringen Ditch and covers a surface area of 33 acres with a drainage area of 2.3 square miles. While the dam has a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, it is regularly inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, allowing for natural water flow management, and there are no outlet gates associated with the structure.
With its picturesque surroundings and important role in supporting local wildlife, Summit Lake State Park - Upper Dam offers a unique opportunity for visitors to appreciate the intersection of water resource management and environmental conservation. Whether it's exploring the diverse ecosystems around the dam or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the park, this hidden gem in Indiana is sure to inspire awe and appreciation for the natural world.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
1650 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
SWERINGEN DITCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
33 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
2.3 |
Nid Storage |
853 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Summit Lake State Park - Upper Dam