Baire Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Baire Lake Dam, located in Greencastle, Indiana, was completed in 1965 and is primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Managed by a private owner, the dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20 feet. With a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, the dam controls the flow of the TR-PLUM CR and BIG WALNUT CR rivers, making it an essential resource for water management in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Baire Lake Dam has not been inspected since October 1979, with its condition currently rated as "Not Rated." The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is unknown, raising concerns about its readiness in the event of a disaster. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find this lack of recent inspection and assessment troubling, as it highlights potential risks associated with aging infrastructure and inadequate maintenance practices.

As advocates for sustainable water resource management, it is crucial to monitor and assess the condition of dams like Baire Lake Dam regularly. Ensuring the safety and functionality of these structures is vital for protecting communities downstream and safeguarding the environment. By addressing the maintenance and inspection gaps highlighted in the data, stakeholders can work towards enhancing the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-PLUM CR,BIG WALNUT CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

53

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.