Jimmerson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jimmerson Lake Dam in Steuben, Indiana, is a concrete structure completed in 1945 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, located on Crooked Creek, stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 1,743 acre-feet. With a surface area of 434 acres and a drainage area of 52.3 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and providing opportunities for outdoor activities in the region.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the condition assessment of Jimmerson Lake Dam in 2013 rated it as fair. The dam underwent its last inspection in November 2017, with an inspection frequency of 3 years. While there are no spillways or outlet gates associated with the structure, the dam has a maximum discharge capability of 399 cubic feet per second. With a risk assessment indicating a high level of risk (2), it is essential for stakeholders to remain vigilant in monitoring and managing the dam's safety to ensure the protection of downstream communities and the environment.

As a state-regulated facility under the jurisdiction of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Jimmerson Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to uphold safety standards. The dam's location in S30, T38N, R13E, and its association with the Chicago District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlight the collaborative efforts involved in managing water resources and infrastructure. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Jimmerson Lake Dam continues to serve as a vital asset for both recreation and water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

CROOKED CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

434

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

52.3

Nid Storage

1743

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
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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.