Kivett Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Kivett Lake Dam, located in Morgan County, Indiana, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this private-owned earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a tranquil retreat amid the beauty of nature. With a height of 24 feet and a length of 400 feet, the dam provides vital storage of 98 acre-feet, ensuring water availability for various activities.

Despite its low hazard potential, Kivett Lake Dam has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition, underscoring the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring. The dam overlooks the picturesque White River and covers a surface area of 8.63 acres, contributing to the local ecosystem and providing a habitat for diverse wildlife. The dam's high risk assessment rating further emphasizes the importance of proactive risk management measures to safeguard its structural integrity and surrounding environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of infrastructure like Kivett Lake Dam is crucial in promoting sustainable practices and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. With state regulation, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam serves as a vital component in the region's water management system, highlighting the intersection of human development and natural resource conservation.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.63

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.45

Nid Storage

98

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.