Thomas Papaik Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thomas Papaik Lake Dam is a private structure located in Steuben, Indiana, serving as a recreational spot for fish and wildlife enthusiasts.


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Summary

With a height of 27 feet and a length of 935 feet, the dam offers a serene surface area of 14.5 acres for visitors to enjoy. Despite its poor condition assessment in 2014, the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level.

Owned privately, the dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, ensuring state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, providing a tranquil environment for outdoor activities. Situated in a picturesque location with a drainage area of 0.19 square miles, Thomas Papaik Lake Dam offers a peaceful retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Although the dam may require maintenance and improvements due to its poor condition assessment, it continues to attract visitors seeking a recreational escape in the heart of Indiana. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Thomas Papaik Lake Dam remains a popular destination for those looking to appreciate the beauty of nature and engage in outdoor activities near the Chicago District.

Dam Length

935

Dam Height

27

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.5

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

165

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.