Lake Dalecarlia Dam (East) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Dalecarlia Dam (East) in Indiana, built in 1929, stands as a testament to both engineering prowess and a commitment to recreational water resources.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam, located on Cedar Creek, boasts a height of 14 feet and a length of 275 feet, providing a serene surface area of 162.16 acres for leisure activities. However, the dam's condition is currently assessed as poor, with a high hazard potential, necessitating regular inspections to ensure public safety.

The dam's primary purpose of recreation draws visitors seeking solace in its tranquil waters, but the lack of a spillway and outlet gates raises concerns about its ability to manage excess water flow. With a drainage area of 20.1 square miles, the dam is vital for flood control and water storage, with a storage capacity of 2,590 acre-feet. Despite its critical role, the dam's risk assessment is high, indicating the need for immediate attention and potential risk management measures to safeguard against failure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Lake Dalecarlia Dam (East) serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental preservation. Its historical significance and recreational value underscore the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to ensure its longevity and continued contribution to the community. As the dam faces challenges with its current conditions, stakeholders must come together to address these issues and secure a sustainable future for this iconic water resource.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

162.16

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

20.1

Nid Storage

2590

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

14
       
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.