Hamilton Lake-South Dam, located in Steuben County, Indiana, stands as a critical piece of infrastructure regulating the flow of Fish Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1832, this earth dam reaches a height of 21 feet and spans 280 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 18,000 acre-feet. The dam's purpose is to provide flood control and water storage for the surrounding area, with a drainage area of 16.5 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 472 cubic feet per second.
Despite its historical significance, Hamilton Lake-South Dam faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which was rated as poor as of 2010. The dam also carries a high hazard potential, indicating the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety. With a risk assessment rating of high, stakeholders must prioritize risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the dam's structural integrity for years to come.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the preservation and upkeep of Hamilton Lake-South Dam serve as a vital concern to ensure the continued protection of surrounding communities and ecosystems. With a clear understanding of the dam's historical significance and the potential risks it poses, ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and risk management efforts are essential to ensure the long-term resilience and functionality of this crucial water resource infrastructure in Indiana.
Year Completed |
1832 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
FISH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
755.39 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
16.5 |
Nid Storage |
18000 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
21 |