Old Mill Dam (In-Channel) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 27, 2025
Old Mill Dam (In-Channel), also known as Charles Mill Dam, is a recreational structure located on the Mississinewa River in Grant County, Indiana.
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Summary
Built in 1938, this dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 350 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the dam is currently in poor condition and poses a low hazard potential.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Old Mill Dam serves primarily for recreational purposes. While it lacks a spillway and outlet gates, the dam has undergone its last inspection in February 2016, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years. The risk assessment for the dam has been classified as high, warranting attention to its condition and potential management measures to ensure public safety and environmental preservation.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the preservation and management of dams like Old Mill Dam (In-Channel) on the Mississinewa River can draw attention to the need for regular inspections, maintenance, and risk assessments. With its historical significance and recreational value, efforts to improve the dam's condition and address any potential hazards can contribute to the sustainable use of water resources and the protection of the surrounding ecosystem. Collaboration between local government, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders is essential to ensure the long-term safety and functionality of this iconic structure.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
MISSISSINEWA RIVER |
Drainage Area |
681.24 |
Nid Storage |
230 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mississinewa River At Marion
|
83cfs |
Salamonie River Near Warren
|
37cfs |
Wildcat Creek Near Jerome
|
2cfs |
Wabash River At Wabash
|
145cfs |
Pipe Creek At Frankton
|
9cfs |
Wabash River At Peru
|
215cfs |
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.
Old Mill Dam (In-Channel)