Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Upper Big Blue River Structure No.
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Summary
2, located in Carthage, Indiana, along Goose Creek, was completed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS. This earth dam stands at 35 feet tall and spans 562 feet, with a storage capacity of 1208 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial infrastructure for the local government in Rush County.
Despite its importance, the dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in August 2019 revealed the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure its effectiveness in flood control. With a moderate risk rating, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented to safeguard the surrounding community.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is vital to monitor the state-regulated Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 2 closely. With its critical role in flood risk reduction and the potential hazards posed by its current condition, there is an opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate on enhancing the dam's resilience and ensuring the safety of the local area. The structure serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring in protecting communities from natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
562 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
GOOSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
1208 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sugar Creek At New Palestine
|
16cfs |
Fall Creek Near Fortville
|
72cfs |
Big Blue River At Shelbyville
|
468cfs |
Buck Creek At Acton
|
110cfs |
White River At Anderson
|
95cfs |
White River At Raible Avenue At Anderson
|
183cfs |
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. 2