Chinook Mine Dam No. 5-A Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Chinook Mine Dam No.
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Summary
5-A, located in Vigo County, Indiana, was completed in 1981 and serves primarily for recreational purposes. This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and stretches 300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet. Although the dam has a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is currently labeled as "Not Rated", with the last inspection conducted in August 1995.
Despite not being regulated by the state, Chinook Mine Dam No. 5-A presents an intriguing site for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its unique design and purpose. The dam's location amidst the picturesque surroundings of Indiana offers a serene setting for recreational activities, attracting visitors with its surface area of 7 acres and a maximum discharge of 130 cubic feet per second. While the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness status remain unclear, the structure's historical significance and impact on the local ecosystem warrant further exploration and study.
As a focal point for water-based activities and ecological considerations, Chinook Mine Dam No. 5-A stands as a testament to human interaction with natural resources. Although its current condition assessment may be lacking, the dam's role in providing recreational opportunities and potential risks associated with its operation invite a closer examination of its environmental footprint and long-term sustainability. With its rich history and potential implications for climate resilience, this dam serves as a compelling site for research and discussion among water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
24 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
168 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
2250cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
145cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek At Coxville
|
128cfs |
Mill Creek Near Cataract
|
57cfs |
Wabash River At Montezuma
|
2290cfs |
Busseron Creek Near Carlisle
|
192cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hawthorne County Park
|
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Camp Wildwood
|
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Fowler County Park
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Chinook Mine Dam No. 5-A