Riley Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Located in Vigo, Indiana, the Riley Lake Dam is a privately owned structure that was completed in 1964 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
With a height of 13 feet and a length of 480 feet, this earth dam holds a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 1.43 acres for recreational activities. Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, the dam's hazard potential is considered significant, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure its safety and stability.
The Riley Lake Dam poses a potential risk due to its condition being labeled as "Not Rated" and the last inspection taking place in 1964. While no emergency action plan (EAP) or risk assessment has been conducted, the dam's location in Congressional District 08, Indiana, emphasizes the need for proactive measures to mitigate any potential hazards. With no spillway or outlet gates specified, the dam's hydraulic and structural height of 13 feet each warrant attention to prevent any unforeseen incidents that could impact the surrounding community and environment.
Although the Riley Lake Dam offers a picturesque setting for recreational activities, its condition assessment, emergency preparedness, and risk management measures remain undetermined. With the dam's location in Indiana's water resource landscape, there is a need for stakeholders to prioritize safety protocols and regular inspections to ensure the longevity and functionality of this vital structure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for proper maintenance and monitoring of dams like Riley Lake to uphold the safety of communities and ecosystems downstream.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
13 |
Surface Area |
1.43 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
0.85 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
2250cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
145cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek At Coxville
|
128cfs |
Wabash River At Montezuma
|
2290cfs |
Mill Creek Near Cataract
|
57cfs |
Wabash River At Riverton Ind
|
2690cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Fowler County Park
|
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Hawthorne County Park
|
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Camp Wildwood
|
Riley Lake Dam