Charles Sanderson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Charles Sanderson Lake Dam, also known as Bonahoom-Borror Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Whitley, Indiana, along the Blue River.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 310 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 354 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.82 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its importance, Charles Sanderson Lake Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection conducted in August 2020 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure the safety and reliability of the structure. The dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to mitigate risks and protect the surrounding community from potential flooding events.

While the dam currently poses a moderate risk level, ongoing risk management measures are essential to address the structural deficiencies and maintain the integrity of the dam. With its picturesque location and vital role in water resource management, Charles Sanderson Lake Dam serves as a focal point for climate enthusiasts and stakeholders interested in preserving and enhancing the sustainability of water infrastructure in Indiana.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.82

Nid Storage

354

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.