Parker Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Parker Lake in Mahalasville, Indiana, is a privately-owned recreational lake nestled along the Indian Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1949 by USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 26 feet high and stretches 400 feet in length, creating a serene 6.5-acre surface area. The lake offers a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts, with a low hazard potential but a poor condition assessment that warrants attention.

Despite its outdated infrastructure and risk assessment rating of High (2), Parker Lake continues to attract visitors seeking outdoor recreation. While the dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, its 70-acre-foot storage capacity provides ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The state-regulated facility falls under the jurisdiction of the IDNR, with inspections conducted every 5 years to ensure public safety and environmental compliance.

As climate change poses challenges to water resource management, the need for maintenance and modernization of dams like Parker Lake becomes increasingly urgent. With its historical significance and potential for ecological restoration, this hidden gem in Morgan County calls for collaborative efforts from state agencies, conservationists, and local communities to preserve its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.5

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.