Schnellville Conservation Club Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Schnellville Conservation Club Lake Dam in Dubois County, Indiana, stands as a vital structure for recreation and water resource management.


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Summary

Constructed in 1945, this earth dam spans 425 feet in length and reaches a height of 35 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 305 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of Hall Creek, the dam serves as a recreational hotspot with a surface area of 19.11 acres and a drainage area of 1.15 square miles.

Despite its significance for recreation, the dam's condition assessment is deemed poor, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection conducted in May 2016 revealed the need for improvement and maintenance. However, the dam remains under state jurisdiction and regulation by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. With a moderate risk level assigned to the site, there is a call for enhanced risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment from potential hazards.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Schnellville Conservation Club Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in balancing the need for recreation with the imperative of dam safety and maintenance. With its historical significance and ecological impact on the surrounding area, this dam serves as a focal point for ongoing discussions on the sustainable management of water resources in Indiana. As efforts continue to address the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential, there is an opportunity for stakeholders to come together in ensuring the long-term resilience and safety of this vital water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY HALL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19.11

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

1.15

Nid Storage

305

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.