Stout Lake Dam (West) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Stout Lake Dam (West) in Warren County, Indiana, is a private earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this dam has a height of 24 feet and a length of 575 feet, creating a surface area of 16.2 acres and a normal storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the French Ditch river/stream and is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Despite its recreational benefits, Stout Lake Dam (West) has been assessed as having a significant hazard potential and poor condition. The last inspection in 2015 revealed the dam's condition to be less than ideal. With an inspection frequency of 3 years, it is crucial for the dam's owners to address any deficiencies and implement risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Stout Lake Dam (West) should be aware of its moderate risk level and the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential hazards. The dam's location in a rural area and its reliance on soil foundations highlight the importance of proper upkeep to prevent any adverse impacts on the surrounding environment and community. With state regulation and inspection in place, stakeholders must work together to uphold the safety and functionality of this recreational water resource.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

575

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

FRENCH DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.2

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.39

Nid Storage

192

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.