Broad Ripple Dam (In-Channel) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

The Broad Ripple Dam (In-Channel) in Indiana, completed in 1830, serves as a crucial water supply structure along the White River.


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Summary

This timber crib dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 307 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 459 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance, the dam is currently in poor condition, posing a low hazard potential with a high risk assessment rating of 2.

Located in Marion County, Indiana, the Broad Ripple Dam is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections every five years. While the dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, its primary purpose remains water supply. The dam's deteriorating condition highlights the need for potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water resource structure for the surrounding community and environment.

Year Completed

1830

Dam Length

307

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

91.83

Drainage Area

1234.15

Nid Storage

459

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.