Bailey Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Bailey Lake Dam, located in Morgan County, Indiana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1973 for recreational purposes, specifically as a fish and wildlife pond.


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Summary

Managed by the Natural Resource Conservation Service, the dam stands at a height of 22.5 feet and has a structural height of 23 feet, with a length of 355 feet. It holds a storage capacity of 7 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6.5 acres, with a drainage area of 0.5 square miles.

The dam, situated on an unnamed tributary of the White River, is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is considered to be in fair condition as of its last assessment in 2005. Despite its moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3, the dam has not undergone any major modifications in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place.

Although Bailey Lake Dam does not have any associated federal agencies or funding, it remains an important recreational feature in the area. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam serves as a vital resource for the local community, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Bailey Lake in water management and conservation efforts can help in promoting sustainable practices for the future.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

355

Dam Height

22.5

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY WHITE RIVER

Surface Area

6.5

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

7

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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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.