Bell Lake Dam, located in Johnson County, Indiana, serves as a crucial water resource along Nineveh Creek, primarily designated for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
This private earth dam, completed in 1940, stands at a height of 25 feet with a length of 330 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. The dam's condition assessment in 2011 indicated poor structural integrity, posing a significant hazard potential and a high risk rating.
Despite its deteriorating condition, Bell Lake Dam continues to be a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-based activities in the area. However, the dam's lack of a spillway and outlet gates, combined with its outdated design, present challenges in managing potential risks and ensuring public safety. The last inspection in 2018 highlighted the urgent need for maintenance and upgrades to mitigate the dam's risk level and safeguard the surrounding community from potential flooding events.
As climate change intensifies and water resources face increasing pressures, the importance of maintaining and improving infrastructure like Bell Lake Dam becomes paramount. With proper investments in rehabilitation and risk management measures, this dam can continue to provide valuable recreational opportunities while enhancing its resilience to future climate-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
NINEVEH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.17 |
Nid Storage |
1200 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
25 |
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378cfs |
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84cfs |
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|
1030cfs |
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|
556cfs |
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48cfs |
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33cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Johnson County Park
|
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Camp Atterbury Military
|
||
Irwin City Park
|
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Heflen Co Park
|