Dalton Dam, located in Martinsville, Indiana, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a structural height of 43 feet, providing a storage capacity of 175 acre-feet. The dam overlooks an unnamed tributary of the White River, covering a surface area of 10.8 acres and draining a 0.23 square mile watershed.
Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Dalton Dam continues to be a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. The dam lacks spillway features and outlet gates, posing a risk of inundation in case of a high discharge event. While the dam has not been modified over the years, regular inspections and enforcement by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources ensure public safety and compliance with state regulations.
As climate change poses increasing challenges to water resources management, Dalton Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for both recreation and water storage in the region. With a risk assessment rating of high (2), it is crucial for authorities to prioritize risk management measures and potentially implement emergency action plans to mitigate the potential threats associated with the dam’s current condition.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
175 |
Structural Height |
43 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
43 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mason Ridge - Morgan Monroe State Forest
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Oak Ridge Camping Area
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Morgan - Monroe State Forest
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Mason Ridge Camping Area
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