Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 18 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Upper Big Blue River Structure No.
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Summary
18 in Indiana, designed by USDA NRCS, serves as a vital local government-owned flood risk reduction structure on an unnamed tributary of the Big Blue River. Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 45.3 feet, with a hydraulic height of 39 feet and a structural height matching the dam height. With a storage capacity of 2420 acre-feet and a normal storage of 122 acre-feet, this structure covers a surface area of 24 acres to manage a drainage area of 3 square miles.
Located in Henry County, Indiana, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding, with a spillway width of 200 feet to manage excess water flow. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory as of the last inspection date in October 2020. With a moderate risk rating, this structure continues to be regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to ensure its effectiveness in flood risk reduction for the community of New Castle.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
875 |
Dam Height |
45.3 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BIG BLUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
39 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
2420 |
Structural Height |
45.3 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 18