Lake George Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake George Dam, located in Steuben, Indiana, serves as a vital structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Built in 1927, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 405 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 12,200 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Crooked Creek, primarily serves the purpose of recreation, offering a surface area of 537.95 acres for outdoor activities.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Lake George Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. With a moderate risk level, the dam requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The dam's last inspection in August 2019 revealed the need for improvements, highlighting the importance of timely risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding communities.

As a privately owned structure regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Lake George Dam plays a crucial role in water management within the region. Its proximity to Crooked Creek and the surrounding area makes it a focal point for water enthusiasts and environmentalists alike, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to preserve its integrity and functionality for future generations.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

405

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

CROOKED CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

537.95

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

14.7

Nid Storage

12200

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.