Minifenokee Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Minifenokee Lake Dam, located in Steuben, Indiana, was completed in 1960 and stands at a height of 12.9 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes such as fish and wildlife pond activities.


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Summary

With a storage capacity of 445 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 34.5 acres, the dam overlooks an unnamed tributary of Follette Creek, providing a serene and picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2015 revealed poor structural integrity, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its long-term safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are currently under review, as it continues to be regulated and inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to uphold the safety standards required for its operation. Water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the historic significance and recreational opportunities offered by Minifenokee Lake Dam while advocating for its preservation and upkeep to sustain its environmental and recreational benefits for future generations.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

12.9

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY FOLLETTE CREEK

Surface Area

34.5

Drainage Area

0.51

Nid Storage

445

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.