Morse Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Morse Reservoir Dam, located in Hamilton County, Indiana, serves as a critical water supply source and supports various recreational activities such as fishing and wildlife observation.
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Summary
Built in 1955 by Dodson, Kinney, & Lindblom from Columbus, Ohio, this earth dam stands at a height of 70 feet with a hydraulic height of 45 feet, effectively storing up to 49,300 acre-feet of water. The dam spans 1,500 feet across the Cicero Creek, creating a surface area of 1,375 acres and serving a drainage area of 216 square miles.
With a spillway width of 550 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 66,513 cubic feet per second, Morse Reservoir Dam is designed to manage high hazard potential and has been deemed satisfactory in condition assessments. Despite its age, the dam undergoes regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's risk assessment is categorized as moderate, signifying the importance of ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
As a vital component of Indiana's water infrastructure, Morse Reservoir Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. Its role in providing water supply, supporting recreation, and regulating water flow underscores the importance of sustainable dam operations and monitoring practices in the face of changing climate patterns. The dam's enduring presence highlights the ongoing efforts to balance the needs of water users with the preservation of natural resources in a dynamic and evolving environment.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
1500 |
Dam Height |
70 |
River Or Stream |
CICERO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1375 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Drainage Area |
216 |
Nid Storage |
49300 |
Structural Height |
70 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
70 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River At Noblesville
|
216cfs |
Stony Creek Near Noblesville
|
9cfs |
White River Near Nora
|
205cfs |
Fall Creek Near Fortville
|
33cfs |
Eagle Creek At Zionsville
|
16cfs |
Fall Creek At Millersville
|
58cfs |
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.
Morse Reservoir Dam
Cicero Road 398, Noblesville