Bell Conservation Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Bell Conservation Lake, located in Vanderburgh County, Indiana, is a privately-owned dam with a primary purpose that is not specified in the data.
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Summary
Completed in 1939, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans a length of 650 feet, with a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 9.18 acres and is fed by an unnamed tributary of Bluegrass Creek, with a drainage area of 0.1 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Bell Conservation Lake has been assessed to be in poor condition as of February 2014, raising concerns about its ability to withstand potential risks. The dam lacks a spillway, outlet gates, and locks, indicating a limited capacity for managing water levels during high discharge events. The risk assessment for the dam has been classified as high, highlighting the need for enhanced risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bell Conservation Lake presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management and risk assessment. As a privately-owned facility regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the lake serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to prevent potential hazards. With its historical significance and environmental impact on the surrounding area, Bell Conservation Lake offers a unique opportunity for researchers and policymakers to explore the intersection of water conservation, climate resilience, and dam safety.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BLUEGRASS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.18 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
101 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pigeon Creek Near Fort Branch
|
1cfs |
Big Creek Near Wadesville
|
1cfs |
Patoka River Near Princeton
|
732cfs |
Patoka River At Winslow
|
572cfs |
Wabash River At Mt. Carmel
|
6020cfs |
Wabash River At New Harmony
|
6160cfs |
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.
Bell Conservation Lake