Walton Lake Dam, located in LaPorte, Indiana, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1950 primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
With a height of 9 feet and a length of 225 feet, this dam provides a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 18.6 acres. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary of the Little Calumet River and is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Walton Lake Dam is marked as unsatisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in May 2018. The risk assessment for the dam indicates a high risk level of 2. Emergency action plans and inundation maps are yet to be prepared, raising concerns about the response capability in the event of a breach or failure. It is crucial for the owners and regulatory agencies to address the unsatisfactory condition and ensure the implementation of risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Walton Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned recreational dam in Indiana. The dam's historical significance, design features, and current condition raise questions about its long-term sustainability and the need for proactive maintenance and risk management strategies. As the dam is a vital component of the local water infrastructure, stakeholders must prioritize safety and resilience to protect both the environment and public safety in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY LITTLE CALUMET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.36 |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Dunewood - Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
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Dunewood Campground
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State Park
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Indiana Dunes State Park
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Camp Lawrence
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