Thunderbird Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Thunderbird Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 years old. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 51.4% in IN) |
| Dam Length | 1,450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 477 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 101 acres |
| Drainage Area | 25 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 21,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | IN00155 |
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
INDIANA & MICHIGAN ELECTRIC CO., INC.
Private
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Low Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Thunderbird Lake Dam?
Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird Lake Dam?
Thunderbird Lake Dam is owned by INDIANA & MICHIGAN ELECTRIC CO., INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Thunderbird Lake Dam built?
Thunderbird Lake Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
How tall is Thunderbird Lake Dam?
Thunderbird Lake Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Thunderbird Lake Dam last inspected?
Thunderbird Lake Dam was last inspected on July 12, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.