Lake Barbara Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Barbara Dam, also known as Meyer Lake Dam, is a private earth dam located in Bartholomew County, Indiana.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, the dam stands at a height of 22 feet and stretches 550 feet in length. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, with a normal storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 241 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of the East Fork White River, the dam has a low hazard potential but is in poor condition according to a 2015 assessment.
Despite its age, Lake Barbara Dam continues to provide a recreational haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. With a surface area of 12 acres and a drainage area of 0.52 square miles, the dam offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. However, the dam's condition assessment raises concerns about its long-term sustainability and the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety and the preservation of the surrounding environment.
As the dam is under state regulation and inspection by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, efforts are being made to address the dam's poor condition and high risk assessment level. With its picturesque location and potential for outdoor recreation, Lake Barbara Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to protect both people and the environment.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY EAST FORK WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
0.52 |
Nid Storage |
241 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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.
Lake Barbara Dam
East 800 South 5449-5899, Columbus
Clifty Creek Park
Harrison Ridge Park
Sheilds Park
Noblitt Park
Kasting Park