Hidden Hollow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hidden Hollow Lake Dam, also known as Brown Lake Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Bartholomew, Indiana.


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Summary

Built in 1975, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and stretches 520 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, with a surface area of 8.96 acres and a drainage area of 0.42 square miles. However, recent assessments have indicated a high hazard potential and poor condition, raising concerns for its long-term safety and maintenance.

Despite being regulated and inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Hidden Hollow Lake Dam has been flagged for its high risk profile and inadequate condition assessment. With a lack of emergency action plans and updated inundation maps, there are uncertainties surrounding the dam's ability to withstand potential hazards and disasters. Additionally, the dam's proximity to an unnamed tributary of Denios Creek highlights the importance of proper risk management measures and regular maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, there is a pressing need to address the issues surrounding Hidden Hollow Lake Dam to prevent any potential catastrophic events. With a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize risk management measures, conduct regular inspections, and develop emergency action plans to mitigate any potential threats. By taking proactive steps to address these concerns, we can ensure the long-term safety and sustainability of this vital water resource in Bartholomew, Indiana.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY DENIOS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.96

Drainage Area

0.42

Nid Storage

112

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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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.