Wildwood Shores Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Wildwood Shores Lake Dam, also known as Upper Wildwood Lake, is a private dam located in Morgan County, Indiana.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1974 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 23 feet tall and stretches 330 feet in length. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 4.4 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 106 acre-feet.
Despite its recreational appeal, Wildwood Shores Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been rated in poor condition as of its last assessment in 2007. With a drainage area of 0.23 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 33 cubic feet per second, the dam's uncontrolled spillway type raises concerns about its ability to handle extreme weather events. The dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes inspections every two years to ensure public safety.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wildwood Shores Lake Dam presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of man-made infrastructure and environmental risk management. As the dam continues to age and face increasing pressure from changing weather patterns, stakeholders must consider potential modifications and mitigation measures to safeguard the surrounding community and preserve the dam's recreational value. By understanding the complexities of dam management and the importance of proactive maintenance, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable stewardship of this vital water resource in Indiana.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY SINKING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
106 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Wildwood Shores Lake Dam