Black Beauty Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Black Beauty Lake in Indiana is a privately owned reservoir situated in Pike County, offering a tranquil oasis for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Built in 1979, this earth dam spans 580 feet in length and stands at a height of 27 feet, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 5 acres and is fed by an unnamed tributary of the Patoka River, making it a vital component of the local hydrological system.

Despite its low hazard potential, Black Beauty Lake has been assessed as being in poor condition, requiring regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, reflecting the state's commitment to enforcing safety standards for water infrastructure. With a drainage area of 0.07 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 112 cubic feet per second, the lake plays a significant role in managing water flow in the region.

For those interested in water management and environmental conservation, Black Beauty Lake offers a compelling case study in maintaining and safeguarding vital water resources. Its unique location and design underscore the importance of proper oversight and maintenance to ensure the longevity and efficiency of our water infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY PATOKA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

55

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.