Ortwein Dam
Key Takeaway
Ortwein Dam is classified as high hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1989 and is 37 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Height | 57 ft (taller than 96.4% in IN) |
| Dam Length | 480 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1989 (37 years old) |
| NID ID | IN04088 |
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
MICHAEL ORTWEIN
Private
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Low Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ortwein Dam?
Ortwein 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 Ortwein Dam?
Ortwein Dam is owned by MICHAEL ORTWEIN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ortwein Dam built?
Ortwein Dam was completed in 1989, making it 37 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 Ortwein Dam?
Ortwein 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 Ortwein Dam?
Ortwein Dam has a dam height of 57 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 Ortwein Dam last inspected?
Ortwein Dam was last inspected on January 1, 2000. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.