Old Timbers Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Old Timbers Lake, located in Versailles, Indiana, is a Federal-owned fish and wildlife pond managed by the US Army and designed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

This Earth dam, standing at a height of 53 feet, was completed in 1974 and spans 770 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 5039 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the lake is for fish and wildlife conservation, with additional recreational activities available for visitors.

With a surface area of 165 acres and a drainage area of 5 square miles, Old Timbers Lake serves as a critical resource for the local ecosystem and community. The spillway, with a width of 280 feet, is uncontrolled, while the hazard potential is rated as high. Although the condition assessment is not currently available, the emergency action plan was last revised in 2005, ensuring that the necessary protocols are in place to address any potential risks associated with the dam.

Overall, Old Timbers Lake is a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Indiana, providing both recreational opportunities and essential habitat for fish and wildlife. Managed by the US Army and Fish and Wildlife Service, this Earth dam continues to play a vital role in conservation efforts and serves as a beacon of environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

Little Otter Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

165

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

5039

Structural Height

53

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

53
       
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.