Lacy & Caress Lake Dam West Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Johnson County, Indiana, the Lacy & Caress Lake Dam West, also known as the Joe Weddle Dam, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1992 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 30.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a structural height of 30.5 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 105 acre-feet. The dam is situated along an unnamed tributary of Nineveh Creek, covering a surface area of 4.3 acres and serving as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the dam is assessed to be in fair condition as of June 2013. Regular inspections take place every five years, with the last inspection conducted in August 2018. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 18 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 291 cubic feet per second.

With its moderate risk assessment and scenic location in the heart of Indiana, the Lacy & Caress Lake Dam West offers a unique opportunity for outdoor recreation and exploration. As a vital part of the local watershed, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting the diverse ecosystems of the region. Whether you are interested in dam engineering, hydrology, or simply enjoying nature, this picturesque site is worth a visit for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to learn more about the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

245

Dam Height

30.5

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY NINEVEH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

105

Structural Height

30.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.