Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 15 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Upper Big Blue River Structure No.
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Summary
15, located in Henry County, Indiana, is a key component in flood risk reduction along the Moonshine Run river. Built in 1969 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans 1460 feet, offering storage of up to 1072 acre-feet of water. Despite a high hazard potential, the dam is in fair condition according to a 2007 assessment, with regular inspections every two years to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a spillway width of 200 feet, Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 15 can handle a maximum discharge of 7435 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial infrastructure for managing water flow during heavy rainfall events. In addition to flood risk reduction, the dam also serves recreational purposes, highlighting its importance in both water resource management and community engagement. The dam's location in New Castle, Indiana, underscores its significance in protecting local residents and infrastructure from potential flooding risks.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 15 plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and intensify extreme weather events, structures like this dam are essential for safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the threats of flooding. Through ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and risk assessment, Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 15 remains a critical asset in the sustainable management of water resources in Henry County, Indiana.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
1460 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
MOONSHINE RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22.5 |
Drainage Area |
5.04 |
Nid Storage |
1072 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
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.
Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 15