Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam

BIG OX CREEK· Scott, Indiana· Built 1952· Earth· 22 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 22 ft (taller than 30.9% in IN)
Dam Length540 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage143 acre-ft
Normal Storage111 acre-ft
Surface Area13 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge178 cfs
Year Completed1952 (74 years old)
NID IDIN00411

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: January 24, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

BOB AND VALERIE HOUSTON

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam?

Hamilton & Ridlen 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 Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam?

Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam is owned by BOB AND VALERIE HOUSTON (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam built?

Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam?

Hamilton & Ridlen 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 Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam?

Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam last inspected?

Hamilton & Ridlen Lake Dam was last inspected on January 24, 2019. 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.