Bittersweet Moors Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bittersweet Moors Lake Dam, located in Allen, Indiana, is a private structure designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet with a hydraulic height of 19 feet, stretching 350 feet in length. It boasts a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet, providing vital habitat for aquatic wildlife in the area.

Despite its significant role in supporting local biodiversity, Bittersweet Moors Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The last inspection in 2006 revealed areas of concern, highlighting the need for proper maintenance and rehabilitation to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure. With no state regulations, inspections, or enforcement in place, the responsibility for the dam's upkeep falls solely on its private owner.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor the condition of dams like Bittersweet Moors Lake Dam to safeguard against potential risks and environmental impacts. By staying informed and advocating for proper maintenance and management practices, we can help preserve these valuable ecosystems and ensure the continued health of our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-GRAHAM MCCULLOCH DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

124

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.