Hickory Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Hickory Lake in Sullivan, Indiana, is a privately owned reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1902, is an earth dam standing at a height of 24 feet and stretching 265 feet in length. The lake covers a surface area of 4.2 acres and is fed by an unnamed tributary of Boston Creek, making it a picturesque spot for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.
Despite its recreational value, Hickory Lake poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The dam's inspection frequency is every three years, with the last inspection taking place in June 2020. The risk assessment for the area is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam are not fully detailed, highlighting potential vulnerabilities that may need to be addressed to ensure the safety and sustainability of the reservoir.
The location of Hickory Lake, with its tranquil waters and surrounding natural beauty, offers a serene escape for visitors seeking outdoor recreation. However, the dam's condition and hazard potential emphasize the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate risks and ensure the long-term protection of this beloved water resource in Indiana.
Year Completed |
1902 |
Dam Length |
265 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BOSTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.43 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
145cfs |
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
2190cfs |
Busseron Creek Near Carlisle
|
346cfs |
Wabash River At Riverton Ind
|
2440cfs |
White River At Newberry
|
4080cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek At Coxville
|
128cfs |
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.
Hickory Lake