Stucker Fork Dam No. 15 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Stucker Fork Dam No.


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Summary

15, located in Scott County, Indiana, is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along the Little Joe Creek. Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 29.1 feet and has a storage capacity of 597 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for water management in the region. Despite its significance in flood risk reduction, recent assessments have deemed the dam to be in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential, highlighting the urgent need for maintenance and upkeep to ensure its continued effectiveness.

The dam, with a structural length of 1270 feet, plays a pivotal role in regulating water flow and protecting surrounding areas from potential inundation. However, the lack of recent inspections and maintenance activities raises concerns about its long-term functionality and safety. The dam's condition assessment in 2013 indicated poor structural integrity, underscoring the importance of proactive risk management measures to address potential hazards and safeguard the community from adverse impacts of dam failure. With a high-risk classification and outdated emergency action preparedness, stakeholders must prioritize investing in necessary upgrades and monitoring mechanisms to enhance the resilience of Stucker Fork Dam No. 15 and ensure its continued contribution to water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

1270

Dam Height

29.1

River Or Stream

LITTLE JOE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

2.32

Nid Storage

597

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.