Refuse Reservoir Dam So. Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Located in Warrick, Indiana, the Refuse Reservoir Dam So.
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Summary
stands as a significant structure completed in 1958 with a primary purpose described as 'Other.' This privately owned Earth dam, reaching a height of 38 feet and a length of 2650 feet, serves to store water with a maximum capacity of 5 acre-feet and a normal storage of 4 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 400 acres and a surface area of 89 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite being a non-federally regulated dam, the Refuse Reservoir Dam So. poses a significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspection and maintenance. With its last inspection date recorded in July 1980 and a condition assessment marked as 'Not Rated,' there remains a need for updated risk assessments and emergency action plans to ensure the safety and resilience of the dam. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find this structure a compelling subject for further study and consideration in the context of sustainable water management practices.
As a key feature in the Congressional District 08 of Indiana, the Refuse Reservoir Dam So. represents a vital component of the local water infrastructure. With its unique design and historical significance, this dam serves as a focal point for discussions on water resource management, climate resilience, and emergency preparedness. In light of its condition assessment and hazard potential, there is a pressing need for continued monitoring and evaluation to safeguard the surrounding communities and ecosystems from potential risks and disruptions.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
2650 |
Dam Height |
38 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
89 |
Drainage Area |
400 |
Nid Storage |
5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pigeon Creek Near Fort Branch
|
1cfs |
Patoka River At Winslow
|
718cfs |
Big Creek Near Wadesville
|
1cfs |
Patoka River Near Princeton
|
872cfs |
White River At Petersburg
|
3110cfs |
Wabash River At Mt. Carmel
|
5920cfs |
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.
Refuse Reservoir Dam So.
Saint John Road, Elberfeld