Challenge Farm Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Challenge Farm Lake Dam, also known as Valley Forge Farm, is a private structure located in Noblesville, Indiana.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for water supply purposes but also offers recreational opportunities. Standing at a height of 31 feet and spanning a length of 460 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 266 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 19 acres.

Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Challenge Farm Lake Dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary of Stony Creek and is managed by private owners. With a maximum discharge capacity of 425 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be drawn to Challenge Farm Lake Dam for its historical significance, its impact on the local ecosystem, and its potential risks. As a key component of the water supply infrastructure in Hamilton County, Indiana, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental conservation. With its high-risk profile and poor condition, the future of Challenge Farm Lake Dam highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and risk management in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water resources.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY STONY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

266

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

31
       
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.