Carmichael Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Carmichael Dam, located in the Malterville Area of Dubois County, Indiana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1965 by the USDA NRCS.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This recreational dam stands at a height of 25 feet, with a length of 510 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 42 acre-feet. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary of Hall Creek, with a drainage area of 0.04 square miles and a surface area of 4.1 acres.

Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Carmichael Dam continues to be a popular spot for recreation in the area. Its spillway is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge of 173 cubic feet per second. The dam is state regulated and inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, with enforcement and permitting also handled at the state level. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, there are currently no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Carmichael Dam can appreciate its important role in providing recreational opportunities in the region while also considering the potential risks associated with its condition and hazard potential. As a privately owned structure, the dam's management and maintenance fall under the jurisdiction of the owner, with state oversight ensuring compliance with regulations. With a focus on safety and sustainability, ongoing monitoring and potential risk mitigation measures could help secure the future of Carmichael Dam as a valuable resource for the community.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY HALL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.1

Drainage Area

0.04

Nid Storage

42

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.