Lake Dalecarlia Dam (West) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Dalecarlia Dam (West) in Indiana is a privately owned dam that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1929, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 350 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2331 acre-feet and a surface area of 162.16 acres. Located on Cedar Creek in Lake County, Indiana, this dam is regulated and inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Despite its age, Lake Dalecarlia Dam has a high hazard potential and is in poor condition according to a 2006 assessment. The dam has a high risk level, prompting a biennial inspection frequency. With no spillway and no outlet gates, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are unclear. The dam's risk assessment and potential impact on the surrounding area highlight the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the community and environment.

As an essential part of the local water resource infrastructure, Lake Dalecarlia Dam (West) plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and regulating water flow in the region. Its historical significance and the potential risks associated with its condition underscore the need for ongoing assessment, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to safeguard the dam and surrounding areas from potential hazards and ensure the sustainable management of this vital water resource.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

162.16

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

20.1

Nid Storage

2331

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
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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.