Bittersweet Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bittersweet Lake Dam, located in Bartholomew County, Indiana, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Constructed in 2005 by REGIONAL SERVICES CORP., this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans a length of 1450 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 300 acre-feet. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary of Denios Creek and is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Despite being classified as having a "significant" hazard potential, Bittersweet Lake Dam is currently in fair condition as of its last assessment in 2011. The dam features a valve outlet gate and does not have a spillway. With a high risk assessment rating, it is important for the responsible parties to regularly inspect and maintain the structure to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and downstream communities. The dam has not been modified in recent years and is not owned or funded by any federal agencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bittersweet Lake Dam presents an interesting case study in private dam ownership and regulation. With its recreational purpose and potential risks, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and management of water infrastructure to protect both the environment and local communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the state of structures like Bittersweet Lake Dam is crucial for sustainable water management practices in the future.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

1450

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY DENIOS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

300

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.