U 38 (Birdeye Dam) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

U 38, also known as Birdeye Dam, is a federal-owned structure located in Crawford, Indiana, near the city of Adyeville.


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Summary

Built in 1988 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 51 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the South Fork Mitchell Creek and Anderson River. With a maximum storage capacity of 1665 acre-feet and a normal storage of 434 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 9 acres and has a spillway width of 80 feet.

Managed by the Forest Service, U 38 is classified as having significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted by the Forest Service to ensure its structural integrity. Despite not being regulated by the state, U 38 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area and is an essential component of the local water resource infrastructure.

Overall, U 38 (Birdeye Dam) stands as a vital piece of infrastructure in Indiana, serving its primary purpose of flood risk reduction with efficiency and reliability. With its strategic location and design, the dam contributes to the protection of nearby communities from potential flooding events, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

S FORK MITCHELL CK ANDERSON R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

46

Nid Storage

1665

Structural Height

51

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

51
       
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.