Servel Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Servel Lake Dam, located in Vanderburgh, Indiana, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at 19 feet tall and stretching 300 feet in length, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been rated and was last inspected in 1985. With no state jurisdiction or regulatory agency overseeing its operations, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the local community.
The dam's location on Servel Lake provides a surface area of 10 acres and drains an area of 0.28 square miles. While it lacks outlet gates and spillway type specifications, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion. The absence of a Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated emergency contacts raises concerns about its preparedness in the event of a disaster. Despite these gaps, Servel Lake Dam remains a key feature in the region's recreational landscape.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of assessing and maintaining dams like Servel Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial. With its historical significance and recreational value, efforts to ensure the safety and longevity of this structure are essential for safeguarding the surrounding community and preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
19 |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.28 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Creek Near Wadesville
|
2cfs |
Wabash River At New Harmony
|
6890cfs |
Pigeon Creek Near Fort Branch
|
2cfs |
Little Wabash River At Carmi
|
178cfs |
Ohio River At Old Shawneetown
|
259000cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
2760cfs |
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.
Servel Lake Dam