Cecil M. Harden Dam
Key Takeaway
Cecil M. Harden Dam is classified as high hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 1,860 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 132.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 49.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,060 acres |
| Drainage Area | 216 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 134,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1960 (66 years old) |
| NID ID | IN03003 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - Louisville District
Federal Government
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High Hazard 46 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cecil M. Harden Dam?
Cecil M. Harden Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cecil M. Harden Dam?
Cecil M. Harden Dam is owned by USACE - Louisville District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cecil M. Harden Dam built?
Cecil M. Harden Dam was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Cecil M. Harden Dam?
Cecil M. Harden Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Cecil M. Harden Dam last inspected?
Cecil M. Harden Dam was last inspected on September 10, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.