Harkless Drive Dike

Rehabilitation

The Harkless Drive Dike is located on the western edge of Lake Wawasee and helps to control the water level for lakeside residents. The Dike experienced a partial failure in January 2008 and was able to be temporarily repaired; it was apparent that a more permanent solution was required. A rehabilitation project became necessary to improve and maintain the integrity of the structure and reduce the likelihood of a future breach.

Our organization is overseeing this comprehensive rehabilitation project which will improve the structure on a long term scale, making it more secure and effective for years to come. This rehabilitation project not only benefits lakeside property owners, but everyone who enjoys spending time on beautiful Lake Wawasee.

Rehabilitation Project Status

As of June 30th, 2023, the new dike is complete and has passed engineering inspection. Photos of the completed project can be found below. Thank you to Jutte Excavating, Inc. and Lawson-Fisher Associates for finishing this project on schedule.

The total cost of the project, including engineering and planning (soft costs) is approximately $520,000.
You can download the engineering drawings, specifications and cost estimates for the project below:

What is a Dike?

A dike is a barrier created to regulate water level, protecting areas that would naturally be underwater most of the time. Unlike dams, dikes typically run parallel to a body of water and are widely used for water level regulation in rivers, lakes and even seas.

The Importance of a Dike Structure

Dikes do not appear where we need them the most. They are embankments constructed for the purposes of preventing flooding. As with most water oriented structures, they have to be maintained and occasionally reconfigured to remain effective. Doing so helps prevent water levels from rising to lakefront properties and also plays an active role in keeping water levels safe for activities.

The Harkless Drive Dike is located on the western edge of Lake Wawasee and helps to control the water level for lakeside residents. The Dike experienced a partial failure in January 2008 and was able to be temporarily repaired; it was apparent that a more permanent solution was required. A rehabilitation project became necessary to improve and maintain the integrity of the structure and reduce the likelihood of a future breach.

Our organization is overseeing this comprehensive rehabilitation project which will improve the structure on a long term scale, making it more secure and effective for years to come. This rehabilitation project not only benefits lakeside property owners, but everyone who enjoys spending time on beautiful Lake Wawasee.

Rehabilitation Project Status

As of April 1st, 2023: Project construction was bid in March of 2023 with the contract award going to Jutte Excavating, Inc. and construction observation being provided by Lawson-Fisher Associates from South Bend. Notice to proceed is anticipated to be issued on April 14th with final completion of the project targeted for June 28th, 2023. The total cost of the project, including engineering and planning (soft costs) is approximately $520,000.
You can download the engineering drawings, specifications and cost estimates for the project below:

What is a Dike?

A dike is a barrier created to regulate water level, protecting areas that would naturally be underwater most of the time. Unlike dams, dikes typically run parallel to a body of water and are widely used for water level regulation in rivers, lakes and even seas.

The Importance of a Dike Structure

Dikes do not appear where we need them the most. They are embankments constructed for the purposes of preventing flooding. As with most water oriented structures, they have to be maintained and occasionally reconfigured to remain effective. Doing so helps prevent water levels from rising to lakefront properties and also plays an active role in keeping water levels safe for activities.

Projects