Mollenkramer Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mollenkramer Reservoir Dam, located in Ripley, Indiana, was completed in 1930 and serves as a critical water supply source for the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, has a storage capacity of 229 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 34.6 acres. The primary purpose of the dam is for water supply, although it also supports recreational activities in the area.

Despite its importance, the dam has been rated as having a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment. The last inspection in January 2018 revealed the need for improvement, with a high risk level assigned. The dam is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections, with enforcement and permitting also handled by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The dam does not have a spillway, and the risk management measures for the dam have not been specified.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Mollenkramer Reservoir Dam will find a complex infrastructure that plays a crucial role in supplying water to the surrounding communities. The dam's historical significance, combined with its current condition and risk assessment, highlight the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and addressing the vulnerabilities of dams like Mollenkramer Reservoir Dam will be essential for sustainable water management in the future.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BOBS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34.6

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

6.6

Nid Storage

229

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.