Sunset Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cox Dam Maurice Bryant Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Sunset Lake Dam, located in Hendricks County, Indiana, was completed in 1965 and stands at a height of 14 feet, with a length of 280 feet.
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Summary
This earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 13.81 acres and a drainage area of 0.35 square miles. With a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the area.
While Sunset Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, it is classified as having a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent inspections, with the last documented inspection taking place in April 1992. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are also not up to date, raising concerns about its resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and potential emergency situations.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, enthusiasts and stakeholders in the area should advocate for regular inspections, maintenance, and updates to the emergency action plan for Sunset Lake Dam. By staying informed and involved in the preservation of this vital water resource, individuals can help ensure the safety and sustainability of the dam for future generations.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
14 |
Surface Area |
13.81 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
0.35 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Sunset Lake Dam