Shady Hollow Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Otisco, Indiana, Shady Hollow Lake, also known as Gillenwater Lake Dam, is a private water resource managed by USDA NRCS.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This recreational lake was completed in 1974 and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities. With a dam height of 38 feet and a storage capacity of 163 acre-feet, the lake covers an area of 11 acres and sits on the Sinking Fork stream.

The dam, primarily constructed for recreation, is regulated and inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to ensure safety and compliance. Despite being classified as low hazard potential with fair condition assessment, a high-risk assessment was noted in 2016. This risk factor prompts the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to mitigate any potential threats to the surrounding area.

Visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings of Shady Hollow Lake while being mindful of its importance as a water resource in Indiana. With its picturesque landscape and recreational opportunities, this private lake continues to be a valuable asset for both the community and the environment.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

SINKING FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

163

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.