Busseron Dam No. A-3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Busseron Dam No.


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Summary

A-3, also known as Paxton Lake, is a vital structure located in Sullivan, Indiana, owned and regulated by the local government. Built in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Middle Fork Creek. With a storage capacity of 2152 acre-feet and a drainage area of 4.75 square miles, Busseron Dam No. A-3 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flood hazards.

The dam's condition assessment in 2012 rated it as "Fair," with a significant hazard potential and a high risk assessment ranking of 2. Despite not having a spillway, the dam's structural integrity and performance in flood risk reduction remain crucial for the community of Carlisle. The dam's last inspection in March 2018 highlighted the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.

With its strategic location and operational history, Busseron Dam No. A-3 stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Indiana. As a key piece of infrastructure designed to protect against flooding, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical structures to safeguard communities and natural resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

MIDDLE FORK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

43

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

4.75

Nid Storage

2152

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.