Hereford Lake Dam

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY RAMSEY CREEK· Jefferson, Indiana· Built 1970· Earth· 28 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Hereford Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 28 ft (taller than 55.1% in IN)
Dam Length590 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage603 acre-ft
Normal Storage340 acre-ft
Surface Area38 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Max Discharge2,801 cfs
Year Completed1970 (56 years old)
NID IDIN00211

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: May 25, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

HERB PARKER

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hereford Lake Dam?

Hereford 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 Hereford Lake Dam?

Hereford Lake Dam is owned by HERB PARKER (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hereford Lake Dam built?

Hereford Lake Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Hereford Lake Dam?

Hereford 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 Hereford Lake Dam?

Hereford Lake Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Hereford Lake Dam last inspected?

Hereford Lake Dam was last inspected on May 25, 2017. 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.