Lake Barbara Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Barbara Dam, located in Noble, Indiana, was completed in 1979 and serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.


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Summary

With a dam height of 15 feet and a length of 225 feet, the earth dam provides a storage capacity of 886 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 84 acres. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary of the South Branch Elkhart River, contributing to its significance as a water resource for the region.

Despite its importance for recreation, the dam is categorized as having a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment. The last inspection in July 2020 revealed the need for improvement, with a high risk assessment rating of 2. While the dam is state-regulated and inspected, there are concerns about its safety and the need for proper risk management measures to be implemented to address any potential issues that may arise.

As a private-owned structure, Lake Barbara Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the community while also highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management to ensure the safety and longevity of the dam for future generations. With its scenic location and significant storage capacity, the dam serves as a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY SOUTH BRANCH ELKHART RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

84

Drainage Area

0.51

Nid Storage

886

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.