Patoka Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Patoka Dam, also known as Patoka Lake, is a Federal-owned rockfill dam located in Jasper, Indiana.


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Summary

Completed in 1978, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply. With a hydraulic height of 85 feet and a structural height of 145 feet, the dam helps to manage the Patoka River's water levels and reduce the risk of flooding in the area.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Patoka Dam has a high hazard potential due to its location and the surrounding drainage area of 168 square miles. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is regularly updated to ensure readiness in case of a dam-related emergency, and risk assessment and management measures are in place to monitor and address potential flood risks. The dam plays a crucial role in protecting the region from the impacts of severe weather events and maintaining its structural integrity to prevent issues.

Overall, Patoka Dam exemplifies the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in safeguarding communities from the dangers of flooding. As a key infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the area, the dam's operation and maintenance are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding areas, emphasizing the critical role of dams in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

1500

River Or Stream

PATOKA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

8880

Hydraulic Height

85

Drainage Area

168

Nid Storage

301640

Structural Height

145

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

145
       
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.