John Meding Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hart Lake Dam Truman Harless Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Morgan, Indiana, the John Meding Lake Dam, also known as Phil Bright Lake Dam, was completed in 1965 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
This private dam, standing at a height of 31 feet and spanning 140 feet in length, serves primarily for recreational purposes. Situated on an unnamed tributary of Sycamore Creek, the dam has a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.7 acres.
Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The last inspection conducted in April 2016 revealed a satisfactory condition, with the dam meeting guidelines for risk assessment. However, with a risk assessment indicating a high level of risk, it is essential for the dam's owners to stay vigilant in maintaining its structural integrity and implementing appropriate risk management measures.
As an integral part of the water resource infrastructure in the region, the John Meding Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water storage and management. With its picturesque location and recreational offerings, the dam serves as a valuable asset for the community of Beech Grove and its surrounding areas. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is imperative for stakeholders to prioritize the maintenance and safety of this essential structure to ensure its continued functionality and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
140 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY SYCAMORE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
0.08 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
John Meding Lake Dam