Busseron Dam No. A-4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Busseron Dam No.


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Summary

A-4, also known as George Clark Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Carlisle, Indiana. Completed in 1967 by USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 1070 feet along an unnamed tributary of Middle Fork Creek. The dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 372 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.18 square miles.

Although the dam is rated in fair condition as of July 2010, it has a significant hazard potential and a high risk assessment level of 2. With a history of inspections dating back to April 2018 and a regular inspection frequency of 3 years, the dam is equipped with outlet gates and has no spillway. While the dam's condition raises concerns, its fair rating suggests that necessary maintenance and risk management measures are being implemented to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and water resources.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Busseron Dam No. A-4 stands as a vital piece of infrastructure in Sullivan County, Indiana. With its role in flood risk reduction and its strategic location in the Louisville District, this dam serves as a key player in water management and conservation efforts. Understanding its design, purpose, and risk assessment is crucial for those interested in the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY MIDDLE FORK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.1

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1.18

Nid Storage

372

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.