Griggs Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Griggs Lake Dam, also known as Terre Haute Gas Company Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Vigo, Indiana.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 385 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, providing a surface area of 6.8 acres for outdoor activities.

Situated on an unnamed tributary of Thompson Ditch, Griggs Lake Dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, the dam poses moderate risk according to the latest evaluation. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its recreational purpose, offering a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Although the dam lacks certain features such as outlet gates and locks, its uncontrolled spillway with a width of 22 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 46 cubic feet per second. With Larry Bucshon representing the area in Congress, the dam remains a notable landmark in the region, attracting visitors for leisure activities and serving as a reminder of the intersection between human engineering and natural water systems.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY THOMPSON DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.8

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.29

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds