Tipsaw Lake (Str. #4) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tipsaw Lake (Str.


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Summary

#4) in Indiana is a federal-owned water resource managed by the USDA Forest Service. Completed in 1967, this Earth dam stands at 53 feet tall and spans 1,235 feet in length. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the lake also serves as a recreational area for visitors to enjoy.

Sitting on the Sulfer Fork and Middle Fork of the Anderson River, Tipsaw Lake offers a surface area of 142 acres and a drainage area of 9 square miles. Its uncontrolled spillway has a width of 100 feet, ensuring water management during high flow events. While the dam is rated to have a significant hazard potential, it is currently listed as not rated for condition assessment.

Water and climate enthusiasts will find Tipsaw Lake to be a captivating destination for exploring the intersection of flood risk reduction and recreational opportunities in a picturesque setting. The moderate risk level associated with the dam adds an element of intrigue for those interested in understanding the complexities of managing water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions. Visit Tipsaw Lake to witness firsthand the harmonious coexistence of nature and human intervention in water resource management.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1235

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

SULFER FK, MID FK ANDERSON R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

142

Hydraulic Height

53

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

5820

Structural Height

53

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

53
       
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.