Markland Locks And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Markland Locks and Dam, located on the Ohio River in Vevay, Indiana, is a federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Built in 1964, this concrete gravity dam serves multiple purposes, including navigation, fish and wildlife management, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a total storage capacity of 640,700 acre-feet and a surface area of 19,000 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and discharges along the river.

The dam features two locks, each 1200 feet long and 110 feet wide, facilitating the passage of vessels through the waterway. Markland Locks and Dam is also equipped with 12 Tainter radial gates for controlled water release. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers to mitigate flood risks and ensure its structural integrity. Emergency action plans are in place, and risk management measures are continuously implemented to address potential threats and safeguard surrounding communities.

As climate change intensifies, the importance of effective water resource management and climate resilience at facilities like Markland Locks and Dam becomes increasingly crucial. By prioritizing risk assessment, monitoring, and proactive maintenance, the US Army Corps of Engineers aims to enhance the safety and sustainability of this essential infrastructure for both current and future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

1991

River Or Stream

OHIO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

19000

Length Of Locks

1200

Hydraulic Height

53

Drainage Area

83176

Nid Storage

640700

Structural Height

118

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 12

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

118
       
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.