Buffalo Trace Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Buffalo Trace Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 8.5% in IN) |
| Dam Length | 420 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 292 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 162 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 29 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,577 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1971 (55 years old) |
| NID ID | IN00205 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
HARRISON COUNTY PARK AND RECREATION BOARD
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Buffalo Trace Lake Dam?
Buffalo Trace 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 Buffalo Trace Lake Dam?
Buffalo Trace Lake Dam is owned by HARRISON COUNTY PARK AND RECREATION BOARD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Buffalo Trace Lake Dam built?
Buffalo Trace Lake Dam was completed in 1971, making it 55 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 Buffalo Trace Lake Dam?
Buffalo Trace Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Buffalo Trace Lake Dam?
Buffalo Trace Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Buffalo Trace Lake Dam last inspected?
Buffalo Trace Lake Dam was last inspected on January 10, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.