Olinger Lake Dam, located in Orange County, Indiana, is a state-owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1970, the earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans a length of 820 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 549 acre-feet. The dam overlooks an unnamed tributary of the Patoka River and covers a surface area of 18 acres, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.
Despite its low hazard potential, Olinger Lake Dam has been rated as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in January 2016. With a high risk assessment score of 2, there are concerns about the structural integrity and overall safety of the dam. It is important for the state regulatory agency, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, to conduct regular inspections and enforce necessary maintenance measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the preservation of this valuable water resource.
While the dam currently lacks a spillway and outlet gates, it remains a popular spot for recreation and wildlife enjoyment. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the upkeep and modernization of dams like Olinger Lake to adapt to evolving environmental conditions and ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital water source in Indiana.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
820 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY PATOKA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
0.45 |
Nid Storage |
549 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
37 |
Patoka River At Jasper
|
284cfs |
East Fork White River At Shoals
|
1530cfs |
Middle Fork Anderson River At Bristow
|
19cfs |
Blue River At Fredericksburg
|
104cfs |
Blue River Near White Cloud
|
303cfs |
East Fork White River Near Bedford
|
1790cfs |