Birk Lake Dam, located in Dubois, Indiana, was completed in 1957 and serves as a vital water resource for the area.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 56 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, providing a surface area of 6.4 acres for activities such as boating and fishing.
Despite its important role in providing recreational opportunities and water storage, Birk Lake Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with a high risk level of 2 out of 5. The dam has a low hazard potential, but improvements are needed to ensure its long-term safety and functionality. The last inspection date was in 2015, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years.
As a privately owned dam, Birk Lake Dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With its location on Straight River and the support of the local community, there is potential for the dam to undergo necessary repairs and upgrades to enhance its resilience to climate change impacts and ensure continued water resource availability for future generations.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
415 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
STRAIGHT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
0.27 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Patoka River At Jasper
|
756cfs |
Middle Fork Anderson River At Bristow
|
9cfs |
Patoka River At Winslow
|
643cfs |
East Fork White River At Shoals
|
2030cfs |
White River Above Petersburg
|
1220cfs |
White River At Petersburg
|
3540cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Dubois County Park
|
||
Ferdinand State Forest
|
||
Fishermen's Campground
|
||
Newton Stewart State Rec Area - Patoka Lake
|
||
Modern Campground
|