Brush Creek Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Brush Creek Reservoir, located in North Vernon, Indiana, is a federal-owned dam managed by the US Army for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 5900 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 175 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. The reservoir is situated on Brush Creek and is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, ensuring proper inspection, enforcement, and permitting processes are in place to maintain its safety and integrity.
With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Brush Creek Reservoir is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and one lock for water flow management. Although its condition assessment is currently not available, the dam undergoes inspections every four years to ensure its safety. Despite its age, the reservoir continues to provide a valuable recreational resource for the community, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the natural surroundings. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, exploring the history and engineering behind Brush Creek Reservoir can offer valuable insights into the management and sustainability of water infrastructure in the region.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
47 |
River Or Stream |
Brush Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
175 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
5900 |
Structural Height |
47 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
47 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Brush Creek Reservoir