The U.S. Corp of Engineers commenced construction of Lake Monroe during the early spring of 1963. 

Since there was considerable acreage of farmland and grazing areas, most of the construction involved building the Lake Monroe Dam. 

The primary creeks which feed the lake are the South, Middle and North forks of Salt Creek. In addition there are hundreds of little Afeeder@ creeks which drain into the lake during heavy rains/and/or snow.

Thus we come to the primary reason for building the lake; Flood Control Reservoir, 

Comprised of 10,750 acres at pool level (538 feet above sea level). 

After severe flooding the reservoir can swell up towards 25,000 acres prior to draining over the emergency spillway which is located about 2 mile from the dam.

Early in 1965 the gates to the dam were closed, and at this point the lake began filling (quite quickly due to heavy rains during February); 

Indiana Department of Natural Resources, division of Fish & Wildlife, began Stocking the Lake with adult and fingerling fish species, and closed the lake to all fishing until January 1^st 1967. 

The DNR received a 99 year renewable lease from the U. S. Corp of Engineers, with which they would control and manage all recreational activities concerning the lake impoundment; however, the U.S. Corp of Engineers would maintain full and complete control of the lake level relative to flood conditions  downstream. 

The U.S. Corp of Engineers has the controlling office in Louisville, KY.