Norman J. Dobell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Guilford, Indiana, the Norman J.


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Summary

Dobell Lake Dam, also known as Maxwell Lake Dam, stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the USDA NRCS. Completed in 1971, this private-owned earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Situated on the East Fork Tanners Creek, this dam boasts a height of 38.5 feet and a capacity of 54 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 4.9 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the Norman J. Dobell Lake Dam is subject to regulatory oversight by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets stringent safety standards. While lacking a spillway, this dam maintains a maximum discharge capacity of 484 cubic feet per second, safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flooding risks. With its last inspection conducted in January 2021 and a regular inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam continues to be monitored closely to uphold its safety and structural integrity.

The picturesque setting of the Norman J. Dobell Lake Dam, nestled in Dearborn County, Indiana, offers a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its rich history, scenic surroundings, and commitment to safety and conservation, this dam serves as a vital resource for the local community and a testament to the importance of responsible water management in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

38.5

River Or Stream

EAST FORK TANNERS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.9

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

54

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

39
       
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.