Family Life Center Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Family Life Center Lake Dam, located in DeKalb, Indiana, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 520 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 161 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Dosch Ditch and is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, with inspections conducted every three years.

Despite its recreational significance, the dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. With a high risk rating of 2, there are concerns regarding the safety of the structure in the event of a breach or failure. The last inspection in 2019 revealed the need for maintenance and rehabilitation to ensure the dam's continued functionality and safety. It is crucial for the owners to address these issues promptly to mitigate the risks associated with the dam.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining and managing infrastructure like the Family Life Center Lake Dam to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems. By understanding the risks and taking proactive measures to address them, we can safeguard these vital water resources for future generations while enjoying the recreational benefits they provide.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

DOSCH DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.25

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

161

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

19
       
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.