Paragon Lake Dam, located in Morgan County, Indiana, is a private earth dam constructed in 1977 for recreational purposes along the White River.
Wind
Humidity
With a height of 28 feet and a length of 260 feet, the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.62 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with the last inspection conducted in February 2015.
Owned and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Paragon Lake Dam is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, lacks a spillway and outlet gates, posing a high risk according to a hazard assessment. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation in case of failure, prompting the need for updated emergency action plans and risk management measures to ensure public safety.
Given its critical condition and high-risk profile, Paragon Lake Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts to advocate for improved maintenance and monitoring practices. With its location within the Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam's future maintenance and rehabilitation efforts will play a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community and ecosystem while preserving its recreational value along the White River.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.62 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.15 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
White River Near Centerton
|
1290cfs |
Mill Creek Near Cataract
|
57cfs |
North Fork Salt Creek At Nashville
|
71cfs |
White Lick Creek At Mooresville
|
118cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
145cfs |
Little Buck Creek Near Indianapolis
|
11cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mason Ridge Camping Area
|
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Morgan - Monroe State Forest
|
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Oak Ridge Camping Area
|
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Mason Ridge - Morgan Monroe State Forest
|
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Area 1
|
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Area 4
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