Oser Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Oser Reservoir Dam, located in Ripley, Indiana, is a significant water resource managed by the local government.
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Summary
Constructed in 1915 on an unnamed tributary of Bobs Creek, this dam stands at a height of 22 feet, with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a surface area of 12.35 acres. Despite its age, the dam has a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a normal storage capacity of 44 acre-feet, making it a crucial component of the local water infrastructure.
The dam, owned and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, has a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. Although it lacks a spillway, Oser Reservoir Dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 140 cubic feet per second. With a high risk assessment rating, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are essential for the safety and sustainability of this critical water structure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to monitor and support the maintenance and upkeep of Oser Reservoir Dam for the benefit of the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1915 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BOBS CREEK |
Surface Area |
12.35 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.35 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Oser Reservoir Dam