Cox Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Cox Lake Dam, located in Bethany, Indiana, is a private-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17 feet. With a storage capacity of 114 acre-feet, the dam serves as a recreational spot with a surface area of 10 acres and a drainage area of 1 square mile, providing a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Despite being a private-owned dam, Cox Lake Dam holds significant hazard potential as it has not been rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection was conducted in 1991, and the dam is not regularly inspected. Emergency preparedness measures, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), have not been prepared or updated for this structure, indicating a potential risk factor for the surrounding area in case of an emergency.
With its close proximity to White Lick Creek and a maximum discharge capacity of 56 cfs, Cox Lake Dam serves as a fascinating site for water enthusiasts to explore the intersection of water resource management and recreational activities. As the dam continues to age, there is a need for increased monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety and sustainability of this recreational water structure for both visitors and the environment.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
OFFSTREAM-WHITE LICK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
114 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Cox Lake Dam