Jim Britton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jim Britton Lake Dam in Dearborn, Indiana, stands as a private-owned structure primarily serving the purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earthen dam reaches 50 feet in height and spans a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 375 acre-feet. The dam, situated in a picturesque location with a surface area of 15 acres, offers a tranquil retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor leisure activities.

Despite being unregulated by the state, Jim Britton Lake Dam's hazard potential remains undetermined, with its condition yet to be rated. The last inspection conducted in 1970 revealed a lack of recent assessments, highlighting the need for updated evaluations to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the structure. With its location in a scenic county in Indiana, the dam presents an opportunity for further exploration and research in the realm of water resource management and climate impact assessment.

As a vital component of the local landscape, Jim Britton Lake Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water resources, climate dynamics, and recreational activities. With its peaceful surroundings and potential for future development, this dam offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to engage with the complexities of water infrastructure while appreciating the natural beauty of its location. As efforts continue to assess and enhance the structure's safety and performance, there is a growing need for collaboration and research in harnessing the full potential of this reservoir for both recreational and environmental purposes.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

50

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

375

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

50
       
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.