Sturgeon Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sturgeon Lake Dam, located in Gibson County, Indiana, was completed in 1965 and stands at a height of 19 feet with a length of 530 feet.
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Summary
This earth-type dam serves as a private water resource structure with a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, primarily for flood control purposes. While the dam has a low hazard potential, it has not been recently inspected or rated for its condition.
Despite its importance in managing water resources for the area, Sturgeon Lake Dam has not been regulated or permitted by the state authorities, and it lacks regular inspections and enforcement measures. The dam's primary purpose and specific design features are not explicitly documented, and there is limited information available on its operational and emergency preparedness protocols. This lack of oversight raises concerns about the long-term safety and effectiveness of the dam in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding downstream communities.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure management and environmental protection, Sturgeon Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study. With limited data on its maintenance history and emergency response plans, there is a pressing need for increased monitoring and regulatory oversight to ensure the dam's continued functionality and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and potential hazards. Stakeholders are encouraged to advocate for improved governance and risk assessment practices to safeguard this vital water resource structure and the surrounding ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
95 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Patoka River Near Princeton
|
714cfs |
White River At Petersburg
|
3540cfs |
White River Above Petersburg
|
1220cfs |
Patoka River At Winslow
|
643cfs |
Pigeon Creek Near Fort Branch
|
2cfs |
Wabash River At Mt. Carmel
|
8800cfs |
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.
Sturgeon Lake Dam