Chinook Mine Dam No. 17 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Chinook Mine Dam No.
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Summary
17, located in Vigo County, Indiana, is a significant earth dam with a height of 17 feet and a hydraulic height of 14.9 feet. Completed in 1988, this dam serves a variety of purposes, including water storage and flood control along the Honey Creek. With a storage capacity of 2,222 acre-feet and a surface area of 20.7 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its importance, Chinook Mine Dam No. 17 is currently assessed as being in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. Its last inspection in 2018 raised concerns about its structural integrity, prompting a high-risk assessment. With a frequency of inspection set at every three years, efforts are required to ensure the safety and functionality of this dam. Climate and water resource enthusiasts should monitor developments and potential risk management measures to safeguard this critical infrastructure.
As a privately owned dam regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Chinook Mine Dam No. 17 requires ongoing attention and maintenance to mitigate risks and ensure its long-term sustainability. The dam's location along Honey Creek underscores its importance in the local ecosystem and water management system. With its high hazard potential and poor condition, stakeholders must prioritize necessary upgrades and safety measures to protect both the dam and the surrounding environment from potential threats and hazards.
Year Completed |
1988 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
HONEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.9 |
Drainage Area |
2.5 |
Nid Storage |
2222 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
17 |
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 |
Wabash River At Montezuma
|
2290cfs |
Mill Creek Near Cataract
|
57cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek Near Fincastle Ind
|
89cfs |
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. 17