Arens Lake Dam

Morgan, Indiana· Built 1978· Earth· 16 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Arens Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1978 and is 48 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 16 ft (taller than 11.2% in IN)
Dam Length190 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage92 acre-ft
Normal Storage30 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge546 cfs
Year Completed1978 (48 years old)
NID IDIN00681

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: August 20, 1996
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Edward Vance

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Arens Lake Dam?

Arens Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Arens Lake Dam?

Arens Lake Dam is owned by Edward Vance (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Arens Lake Dam built?

Arens Lake Dam was completed in 1978, making it 48 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Arens Lake Dam?

Arens Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Arens Lake Dam?

Arens Lake Dam has a dam height of 16 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Arens Lake Dam last inspected?

Arens Lake Dam was last inspected on August 20, 1996. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.