Houston Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Houston Lake Dam in Indiana is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Completed in 2006, the dam stands at a height of 25.4 feet and has a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment was rated as poor in 2014, highlighting the need for maintenance and upkeep to ensure its long-term stability.

Located in Scott County, Indiana, Houston Lake Dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections for safety compliance. The dam's primary purpose is for fish and wildlife pond maintenance and recreational activities. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 12 feet, and the dam has a drainage area of 0.12 square miles. Although the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, its maintenance and risk management measures are essential to prevent any potential issues in the future.

Overall, Houston Lake Dam provides a valuable resource for the local community and visitors, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife conservation. With proper maintenance and risk management measures in place, the dam can continue to serve its intended purposes while ensuring the safety of all those who enjoy its recreational offerings.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

25.4

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

64

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.