Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Upper Big Blue River Structure No.
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Summary
3, located in Carthage, Indiana, is a vital piece of infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risk along Threemile Creek. This earth dam, completed in 1974, stands at a height of 54 feet and spans 840 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 3,840 acre-feet. It serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and recreation, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the region.
Despite being regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, with a fair condition assessment as of June 2013. The last inspection in April 2019 revealed the need for regular maintenance to ensure its functionality and safety. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a pressing need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding area from potential disasters.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the critical role of Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 3 in protecting the local community and ecosystem is essential. By recognizing the dam's significance in flood control and recreation, while also acknowledging its risk factors and maintenance needs, we can advocate for sustainable practices and investment in water infrastructure to ensure its long-term functionality and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
840 |
Dam Height |
54 |
River Or Stream |
THREEMILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
44 |
Hydraulic Height |
54 |
Drainage Area |
11.35 |
Nid Storage |
3840 |
Structural Height |
54 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
54 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sugar Creek At New Palestine
|
16cfs |
Big Blue River At Shelbyville
|
468cfs |
Fall Creek Near Fortville
|
72cfs |
Buck Creek At Acton
|
110cfs |
Whitewater River Near Alpine
|
204cfs |
Flatrock River At St. Paul
|
758cfs |
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. 3