Bischoff Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bischoff Reservoir Dam, located in Ripley County, Indiana, was completed in 1959 and serves as a vital water supply source for the region.
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Summary
The dam, designed by J.C. Eckert, stands at a height of 38 feet and has a structural height of 38 feet. With a storage capacity of 3,291 acre-feet and a normal storage of 1,952 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 205 acres and has a drainage area of 4.82 square miles, with Bobs Creek as its main source of water.
The dam's primary purpose is water supply, although it also provides opportunities for recreation in the area. Classified as a concrete dam with stone core types, Bischoff Reservoir Dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 300 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 4,021 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is in satisfactory condition and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Managed by the local government and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the dam remains a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the area.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Bischoff Reservoir Dam an intriguing structure that plays a significant role in water supply and management in Ripley County, Indiana. With its impressive storage capacity, recreational opportunities, and crucial role in regulating water flow from Bobs Creek, the dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and the importance of sustainable water resource management. As a focal point for both water supply and recreation, Bischoff Reservoir Dam serves as a vital asset for the community and a key element in climate resilience and adaptation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
640 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
BOBS CREEK |
Surface Area |
205 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
4.82 |
Nid Storage |
3291 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Bischoff Reservoir Dam