Thompson Mill Dam (In-Channel) is a historic stone dam located on the Big Blue River in Johnson County, Indiana.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1884, this dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 300 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 321 acre-feet. The dam serves a primarily recreational purpose, with a surface area of 64 acres and a drainage area of 581.15 square miles.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Thompson Mill Dam is considered to be at high risk due to its age and condition. A condition assessment in 2012 rated the dam as fair, with the last inspection conducted in 2017. The dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement protocols in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. While there are no spillways or outlet gates associated with the dam, it remains a notable structure within the Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Thompson Mill Dam an intriguing subject for study, given its historical significance, design characteristics, and risk assessment profile. The dam's location on the Big Blue River in Indiana, along with its unique features and regulatory oversight, make it a valuable case study for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, natural resources, and environmental management in the context of climate change and water resource conservation efforts.
Year Completed |
1884 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
BIG BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Stone |
Surface Area |
64 |
Drainage Area |
581.15 |
Nid Storage |
321 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Sugar Creek Near Edinburgh
|
127cfs |
Driftwood River Near Edinburgh Ind
|
439cfs |
Youngs Creek Near Edinburgh Ind
|
38cfs |
Flatrock River At Columbus
|
212cfs |
Haw Creek Near Clifford
|
12cfs |
East Fork White River At Columbus
|
647cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Irwin City Park
|
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Camp Atterbury Military
|
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Heflen Co Park
|
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Johnson County Park
|