Salmon Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Salmon Lake Dam is a privately owned structure located in Parke, Indiana, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1952 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 230 feet, creating a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet. The dam overlooks an unnamed tributary of Rocky Fork Creek and covers a surface area of 9.9 acres within a drainage area of 0.09 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with the last inspection conducted in February 2016. The risk assessment for Salmon Lake Dam indicates a high risk level of 2, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure its safety and stability. Although there are no spillways or outlet gates present, the dam remains a key feature for recreational activities in the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate its role in providing a scenic and tranquil environment for outdoor enjoyment.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY ROCKY FORK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Salmon Lake Dam