Schaefer Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Schaefer Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 24 ft (taller than 38.5% in IN) |
| Dam Length | 790 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 973 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 86 acres |
| Drainage Area | 15 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,346 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1959 (67 years old) |
| NID ID | IN00026 |
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
SCHAEFER LAKE LOT OWNERS ASSOCIATION
Private
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Low Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Schaefer Lake Dam?
Schaefer 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 Schaefer Lake Dam?
Schaefer Lake Dam is owned by SCHAEFER LAKE LOT OWNERS ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Schaefer Lake Dam built?
Schaefer Lake Dam was completed in 1959, making it 67 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 Schaefer Lake Dam?
Schaefer 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 Schaefer Lake Dam?
Schaefer Lake Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Schaefer Lake Dam last inspected?
Schaefer Lake Dam was last inspected on March 19, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.