Busseron Dam No. G-5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Busseron Dam No.
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Summary
G-5, also known as Rattlesnake Lake, is a crucial water management structure located in Sullivan, Indiana. Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 520 feet across an unnamed tributary of Busseron Creek. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam has a storage capacity of 471 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 1.56 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam plays a significant role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Managed by the local government and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Busseron Dam No. G-5 has undergone inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2480 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle high flow events and safeguard the community of Hymera.
While the dam currently does not have a spillway, outlet gates, or locks, its presence contributes to the overall flood risk reduction efforts in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of structures like Busseron Dam No. G-5 in maintaining the balance between water management and environmental preservation. Further monitoring and maintenance will be crucial in ensuring the continued safety and functionality of this vital infrastructure in the years to come.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
520 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BUSSERON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
1.56 |
Nid Storage |
471 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
2190cfs |
Eel River At Bowling Green
|
145cfs |
Busseron Creek Near Carlisle
|
346cfs |
Wabash River At Riverton Ind
|
2440cfs |
White River At Newberry
|
4080cfs |
Big Raccoon Creek At Coxville
|
128cfs |
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.
Busseron Dam No. G-5