Somerset Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Somerset Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 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 | 36 ft (taller than 79.8% in IN) |
| Dam Length | 538 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 580 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 360 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 23 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,480 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1961 (65 years old) |
| NID ID | IN00059 |
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
SOMERSET LAKE OWNERS ASSOCIATION
Private
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High Hazard 48 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Somerset Lake Dam?
Somerset Lake 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 Somerset Lake Dam?
Somerset Lake Dam is owned by SOMERSET LAKE OWNERS ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Somerset Lake Dam built?
Somerset Lake Dam was completed in 1961, making it 65 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 Somerset Lake Dam?
Somerset 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 Somerset Lake Dam?
Somerset Lake Dam has a dam height of 36 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 Somerset Lake Dam last inspected?
Somerset Lake Dam was last inspected on August 15, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.