Mason Foertsch Dam, located in Spencer, Indiana, along Crooked Creek, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1993, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 435 feet. With a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 10 acres and has a drainage area of 0.1 square miles, making it a significant water resource in the region.
Despite being in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2013, Mason Foertsch Dam poses a significant hazard potential, with a high risk assessment rating. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, raising concerns about its ability to handle maximum discharge events. The dam is inspected every 3 years, with the last inspection conducted in January 2019. The risk management measures and emergency action plan for the dam are not clearly documented, indicating a potential area for improvement in ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure.
With Larry Bucshon (R) as the representative for the congressional district, the regulation and oversight of Mason Foertsch Dam fall under the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The dam's location and design make it a key point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, as it presents both recreational opportunities and potential risks that require careful monitoring and management to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
435 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
CROOKED CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
27 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
32 |