Muddy Fork Structure No. 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Muddy Fork Structure No.


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Summary

5, located in Clark County, Indiana, is a key flood risk reduction infrastructure along an unnamed tributary of Muddy Fork. Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet and spans 822 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1,180 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 13,250 cubic feet per second, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the area.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Muddy Fork Structure No. 5 is assessed to be in fair condition as of October 2004. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in flood risk reduction. The dam's spillway, with a width of 80 feet, helps control water levels during periods of high discharge. With its designed purpose and efficient operation, this structure serves as a vital component in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flood events.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Muddy Fork Structure No. 5 not only protects the local area from floods but also contributes to the overall water resource management in the region. Its strategic location and design make it a noteworthy piece of infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of engineering, nature, and public safety in flood-prone areas.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

822

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY MUDDY FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.9

Hydraulic Height

52

Drainage Area

2.4

Nid Storage

1180

Structural Height

53

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

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.