Pine Springs Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pine Springs Lake Dam, located in Harrison, Indiana, serves as a recreational water resource for enthusiasts in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1951, this private-owned Earth dam stands at 28 feet tall and spans 342 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet, the dam's primary purpose is recreation, providing a surface area of 4.14 acres for activities such as boating and fishing.

Despite its low hazard potential, Pine Springs Lake Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of February 2013. With a high risk rating of 2, the dam's inspection frequency is set at every 5 years to monitor its structural integrity. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, raising concerns about its ability to handle maximum discharge of 160 cubic feet per second. While the dam's emergency action plan status is unclear, it is important for stakeholders to stay informed about the risk management measures in place and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pine Springs Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management. With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, the dam's condition assessment and risk rating highlight the importance of proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness. As stakeholders continue to monitor and assess the dam's integrity, it is crucial to prioritize safety measures and address any identified deficiencies to mitigate potential risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of this beloved water resource.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

342

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY LITTLE INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.14

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

56

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.