Poplar Grove Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Poplar Grove Lake Dam, located in Morgan County, Indiana, was completed in 1930 for the primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This private earth dam stands at a length of 1096 feet and has a surface area of 10.63 acres, providing a scenic water resource for enthusiasts to enjoy. While the dam is not regulated by the state and has not been inspected since 1995, its high hazard potential emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness.

Despite not having a state agency overseeing its regulation, Poplar Grove Lake Dam is a significant structure in the area, providing water storage and recreational opportunities for the community. The dam's condition is currently not rated, highlighting the need for a comprehensive assessment to ensure public safety and environmental conservation. With a risk assessment and management measures yet to be determined, the dam's hazard potential warrants attention from water resource and climate enthusiasts to address any potential risks and ensure long-term sustainability.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the protection and maintenance of dams like Poplar Grove Lake Dam become increasingly vital. With its historical significance and recreational value, efforts to assess and manage risks associated with the dam are essential to safeguarding not only the structure itself but also the surrounding environment and communities that rely on it for water supply and recreation. Collaboration between private owners, state agencies, and stakeholders is crucial in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of this important water resource in Indiana.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

1096

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.63

Drainage Area

0.36

Hazard Potential

High
       
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.