Lake Molly Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Frank Lake Edward Dam
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Lake Molly Dam, located in Pikeville, Indiana, is a privately-owned earth dam constructed by the USDA NRCS in 1978.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans 350 feet in length, with a primary purpose of recreation. Situated on the Patoka River, the dam has a storage capacity of 122 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5 acres, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Despite its recreational appeal, Lake Molly Dam has been classified with a low hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection conducted in November 2015 revealed the need for improvements, with a risk assessment rating of high (2). The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, indicating potential vulnerabilities that may require attention to ensure the safety and reliability of the structure.
With its scenic location and historical significance, Lake Molly Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dam maintenance and risk management. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to enjoy the recreational opportunities offered by this dam, it is crucial for regulatory agencies and owners to prioritize necessary upgrades to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
PATOKA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
0.25 |
Nid Storage |
122 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Patoka River At Winslow
|
352cfs |
Patoka River At Jasper
|
170cfs |
White River At Petersburg
|
9050cfs |
White River Above Petersburg
|
1220cfs |
Middle Fork Anderson River At Bristow
|
21cfs |
Pigeon Creek Near Fort Branch
|
2cfs |
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.
Lake Molly Dam