Sports Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 27, 2025

Sports Lake Dam, located in Upland, Indiana, was completed in 1960 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Managed by a private owner, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a length of 430 feet, creating a surface area of 10 acres. The dam has a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 47 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 352 cubic feet per second.

Although the dam's hazard potential is undetermined and its condition assessment is not rated, the USDA NRCS designed this structure for the protection and enjoyment of the surrounding area. With Sports Run and Walnut Creek flowing nearby, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife alike. Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for the community.

While lacking specific risk management measures and emergency action plans, Sports Lake Dam remains a valuable asset in Grant County, Indiana. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the role such structures play in balancing human needs with environmental conservation. The dam's historical significance and ongoing recreational value highlight the importance of sustainable management practices for our water resources in the face of changing climates.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

SPORTS RUN, TR-WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

79

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

17
       
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.