Hardwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wood Lake Dam Versailles Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hardwood Lake Dam is a privately owned structure located in Ripley, Indiana, serving primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1974 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet, with a length of 285 feet, and a storage capacity of 133 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of the Indian Kentuck Creek, the dam's low hazard potential and fair condition assessment make it a relatively safe structure according to the 2016 inspection report.
Despite its recreational focus, Hardwood Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and climate-related risks in the area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 830 cubic feet per second, the dam helps regulate water flow and reduce flood risks for nearby communities. The dam's location in a high-risk area underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating potential hazards and protecting the environment.
As a key component of water resource management in Ripley County, Indiana, Hardwood Lake Dam reflects the collaborative efforts of various agencies such as the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. While the dam's primary purpose remains recreational, its role in ensuring water security and climate resilience highlights the interconnected nature of infrastructure development and environmental stewardship. By staying informed and engaged with the ongoing maintenance and risk assessment of Hardwood Lake Dam, water resource and climate enthusiasts can contribute to sustainable practices and community safety in the region.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
285 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY INDIAN KENTUCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
0.19 |
Nid Storage |
133 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Campground C
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Campground A
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Versailles State Park
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Campground B
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Youth Tent Area
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Hardwood Lake Dam