Kess Lake Dam, located in Dearborn, Indiana, was completed in 1981 with a primary purpose that is currently unspecified.
Wind
Humidity
This private Earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 217 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. The dam's hazard potential is rated as low, and its condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated."
Despite its low hazard potential, the last inspection of Kess Lake Dam took place in May 1995, suggesting a need for updated assessments and emergency action plans. The dam's proximity to a drainage area of 0.32 square miles and its maximum discharge capacity of 950 cubic feet per second highlight its significance in water resource management for the region. With its surface area of 3.5 acres and normal storage capacity of 28 acre-feet, Kess Lake Dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and storage in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kess Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management. Its location in Indiana's Dearborn County, coupled with its private ownership and lack of state regulation, raises questions about the effectiveness of current inspection and maintenance practices. As concerns about climate change and extreme weather events grow, the need for updated risk assessments, emergency action plans, and regulatory oversight for dams like Kess Lake Dam becomes increasingly apparent.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
217 |
Dam Height |
28 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.32 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Youth Tent Area
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Campground C
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Campground B
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Versailles State Park
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Campground A
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