Saddle Lake (Str. #1) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Saddle Lake (Str.
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Summary
#1) is a federally owned dam located in Perry, Indiana, along the Middle Fork Anderson River. Built in 1965 by the USDA Forest Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 54 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 2750 acre-feet and a surface area of 39 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 200 feet, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 13,780 cubic feet per second. Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, the dam has not been formally assessed for its condition and is currently rated as "Not Rated." Regular inspections are conducted, with the last inspection taking place in December 2018. The dam also has an emergency action plan in place, although details on its preparation and compliance with guidelines are not provided.
While Saddle Lake (Str. #1) primarily serves flood risk reduction purposes, it also offers recreational opportunities in the area. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region. With a moderate risk assessment rating, ongoing risk management measures are crucial in ensuring the safety and functionality of this important infrastructure in the face of climate change and shifting water resource dynamics.
Years Modified |
2001 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
54 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE FK ANDERSON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
39 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Drainage Area |
508 |
Nid Storage |
2750 |
Structural Height |
69 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
69 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 |
|---|---|---|
Saddle Lake Rec Area
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Dogwood Loop
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Tipsaw
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Jackpine Loop
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Primrose Loop
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Goldenrod Loop
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Saddle Lake (Str. #1)
Water Street 300, Troy