Thompson Ditch Dam
Key Takeaway
Thompson Ditch Dam is classified as high hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 72.9% in IN) |
| Dam Length | 850 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 860 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 53 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,187 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1977 (49 years old) |
| NID ID | IN00498 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TERRE HAUTE SANITARY DISTRICT
Local Government
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High Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Thompson Ditch Dam?
Thompson Ditch Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Thompson Ditch Dam?
Thompson Ditch Dam is owned by TERRE HAUTE SANITARY DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Thompson Ditch Dam built?
Thompson Ditch Dam was completed in 1977, making it 49 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Thompson Ditch Dam?
Thompson Ditch Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Thompson Ditch Dam?
Thompson Ditch Dam has a dam height of 33 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Thompson Ditch Dam last inspected?
Thompson Ditch Dam was last inspected on October 29, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.