West Lake Dam

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY GNAW BONE CREEK· Brown, Indiana· Built 1976· Earth· 30 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

West Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 30 ft (taller than 62.3% in IN)
Dam Length380 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage76 acre-ft
Normal Storage44 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge471 cfs
Year Completed1976 (50 years old)
NID IDIN00589

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: February 22, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

AUGUST WATANABE

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of West Lake Dam?

West 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 West Lake Dam?

West Lake Dam is owned by AUGUST WATANABE (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was West Lake Dam built?

West Lake Dam was completed in 1976, making it 50 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 West Lake Dam?

West 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 West Lake Dam?

West Lake Dam has a dam height of 30 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 West Lake Dam last inspected?

West Lake Dam was last inspected on February 22, 2018. 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.