Albin Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Albin Lake Dam, also known as Albin Pond Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Putnam, Indiana.
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Summary
Completed in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and stretches 400 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering visitors a tranquil spot for activities such as fishing and boating on the 6.2-acre surface area of the lake.
Despite its recreational value, Albin Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment, last conducted in 2004. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), which conducts regular inspections to ensure public safety. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary of Big Walnut Creek and is managed for flood control purposes, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1,017 cubic feet per second.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate details of Albin Lake Dam, they will find a mix of historical significance and environmental concerns. The dam's location in a beautiful natural setting provides a backdrop for understanding the importance of proper dam maintenance and monitoring in the face of changing climate conditions. With its unique design and purpose, Albin Lake Dam stands as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment of water resources and the need for sustainable management practices to ensure the safety of communities downstream.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BIG WALNUT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.35 |
Nid Storage |
117 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Albin Lake Dam