Suhre Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Malott Lake Dam Spangler Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Bartholomew, Indiana, the Suhre Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering prowess, serving as a primary source of recreation for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
Completed in 1949, this private-owned dam boasts an earth structure with a height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. With a normal storage capacity of 29 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 216 cubic feet per second, this dam provides essential water management functions while also creating a serene environment for visitors to enjoy.
Surrounded by a surface area of 13 acres and with a drainage area of 0.65 square miles, Suhre Lake Dam offers a tranquil escape for those seeking to engage with nature. While its hazard potential and condition assessment remain undetermined and not rated, respectively, the dam continues to stand as a vital recreational resource in the region. Despite not being regulated by the state, this dam plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike, serving as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.
As water levels fluctuate and climate patterns shift, the Suhre Lake Dam remains a steadfast structure, providing a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts and serving as a symbol of resilience in the face of environmental uncertainties. With a rich history dating back to its completion over seven decades ago, this earth dam continues to offer opportunities for recreation and reflection, highlighting the interconnectedness of water resources and climate dynamics. As efforts to assess and manage the dam's condition evolve, the significance of this site as a recreational haven and a vital component of the local ecosystem becomes increasingly apparent, underscoring the need for sustainable stewardship of our natural resources in the midst of a changing world.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
13 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
0.65 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
East Fork White River At Columbus
|
602cfs |
Haw Creek Near Clifford
|
11cfs |
Flatrock River At Columbus
|
178cfs |
Clifty Creek At Hartsville
|
27cfs |
Driftwood River Near Edinburgh Ind
|
419cfs |
Sugar Creek Near Edinburgh
|
121cfs |
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.
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