Banks Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Heritage Lake Dam Baire Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Banks Lake Dam, located in Putnam, Indiana, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a length of 330 feet, creating a surface area of 3.91 square miles. The dam has a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 56 acre-feet serving the surrounding area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Banks Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with the last inspection in 2016 revealing areas in need of improvement. The dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place. The risk assessment for Banks Lake Dam rates it as high risk (level 2), emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both recreational and environmental purposes.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Banks Lake Dam can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities while also recognizing the need for continued attention to its maintenance and risk management. The dam's location on Clear Creek, within the Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlights its significance in the local watershed. With a focus on enhancing safety and sustainability, ongoing efforts to address the dam's condition and risk factors will be crucial in preserving this valuable water resource for future generations.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
CLEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.91 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Drainage Area |
0.36 |
Nid Storage |
79 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Banks Lake Dam