Busseron Dam No. L-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Busseron Dam No.
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Summary
L-1, also known as Sullivan Golf Course Lake, is a key flood risk reduction structure located in Sullivan, Indiana. Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet, serving as a vital protective barrier along Buck Creek. With a storage capacity of 990 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4258 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
The dam also serves recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 26.3 acres for activities such as fishing and boating. Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Busseron Dam No. L-1 has undergone regular inspections, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2006. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this essential water resource infrastructure.
With its strategic location and significant impact on flood protection and recreational opportunities, Busseron Dam No. L-1 stands as a testament to the collaboration between federal and state agencies in managing water resources effectively. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water infrastructure, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Busseron Dam are essential in mitigating risks and ensuring the resilience of communities against the threats of flooding.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
778 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
BUCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
2.7 |
Nid Storage |
990 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Busseron Creek Near Carlisle
|
452cfs |
Wabash River At Riverton Ind
|
1870cfs |
White River At Newberry
|
2530cfs |
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
1770cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
145cfs |
North Fork Embarras River Near Oblong
|
5cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Sullivan County Park
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Res 26 - Greene - Sullivan State Forest
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Greene - Sullivan State Forest
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Busseron Dam No. L-1