Happy Hollow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Happy Hollow Lake Dam in Brown, Indiana, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1952 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 38 feet in height and spans 450 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 235 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of Middle Fork Salt Creek, this dam offers a surface area of 16 acres for recreational activities, with a low hazard potential but poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2015.

Located in New Bellsville, Happy Hollow Lake Dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure safety and compliance. With a high risk assessment rating of 2, the dam poses some potential risks that may need to be managed in the future. While there are no spillways or outlet gates associated with this dam, its close proximity to the Louisville District of the USACE underscores the importance of proper maintenance and risk management for water resource and climate enthusiasts who frequent this recreational area.

Despite its poor condition assessment, Happy Hollow Lake Dam remains a popular spot for water and climate enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of Brown, Indiana. With its picturesque location and ample storage capacity, this private dam provides a serene setting for recreational activities while also highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management to ensure the safety of all visitors. As efforts continue to address the high-risk assessment and improve the condition of the dam, enthusiasts can appreciate the beauty of this water resource while also advocating for its long-term sustainability and preservation.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY MIDDLE FORK SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

235

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.