Koester Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Koester Lake Dam, located in Posey, Indiana, was completed in 1965 for the primary purpose of water supply.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a length of 920 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 38 acre-feet. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary of Barr Creek, serving as a vital resource for the surrounding area.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its long-term stability. The last inspection in 2016 highlighted concerns about the structure's integrity, prompting further evaluation and risk management measures. With a drainage area of only 0.02 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in water management for the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining its functionality for both water supply and recreational purposes.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the monitoring and maintenance of dams like Koester Lake Dam become increasingly vital. With a risk assessment indicating a high level of risk, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize the safety and resilience of this structure to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the continued availability of water resources for the community.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
920 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BARR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
0.02 |
Nid Storage |
38 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Creek Near Wadesville
|
9cfs |
Wabash River At New Harmony
|
10100cfs |
Pigeon Creek Near Fort Branch
|
2cfs |
Wabash River At Mt. Carmel
|
10400cfs |
Patoka River Near Princeton
|
895cfs |
Bonpas Creek At Browns
|
1cfs |
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.
Koester Lake Dam