Koontz Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Koontz Lake Dam, located in Starke County, Indiana, was completed in 1849 and serves as a critical infrastructure for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This concrete dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 4,820 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 2,980 acre-feet. The dam spans 271 feet in length and creates a surface area of 324.43 acres, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.

Despite its age, Koontz Lake Dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with a high hazard potential due to its location along Lawrence Pontius Ditch. The dam is under state regulation by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, measures are in place to manage any potential risks associated with the dam.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Koontz Lake Dam offers a fascinating look into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural water systems. Its historical significance, recreational value, and ongoing maintenance highlight the importance of sustainable management of water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1849

Dam Length

271

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

LAWRENCE PONTIUS DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

324.43

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

6.25

Nid Storage

4820

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.