J. Edward Roush Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The J.


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Summary

Edward Roush Dam, located in Huntington, Indiana, is a vital structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to reduce flood risk along the Wabash River. Completed in 1968, this concrete dam stands at a structural height of 91 feet and has a storage capacity of 153,100 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction and also provides recreational opportunities for the local community.

Despite its risk management measures, the dam poses a high hazard potential, particularly during major high water events. The controlled spillway system helps regulate water releases to prevent potential flooding downstream to cities like Huntington, Andrews, Wabash, and Lafayette. However, the possibility of erosion or extreme rainfall events leading to a breach underscores the importance of continuous monitoring, emergency preparedness, and coordination with local authorities to mitigate the impact on downstream communities.

Overall, the J. Edward Roush Dam plays a crucial role in protecting both upstream and downstream areas from flood risks. Its strategic location and efficient risk management practices by the USACE are essential in ensuring the safety and resilience of surrounding communities in the face of potential natural disasters.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

6500

River Or Stream

WABASH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

900

Hydraulic Height

84

Drainage Area

707

Nid Storage

153100

Structural Height

91

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3, Vertical Lift - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

91
       
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.