Muddy Fork Structure No. 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Clark County, Indiana, Muddy Fork Structure No.


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Summary

3 is a vital component in flood risk reduction along the unnamed tributary of the Muddy Fork. Built in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 72 feet high and stretches over 596 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 2950 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, this structure is regulated and inspected by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to ensure its functionality and safety.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 25 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 9200 cubic feet per second. Its purpose is solely focused on flood risk reduction, serving the local community of New Providence (Borden) by protecting against potential inundation. Despite its age, Muddy Fork Structure No. 3 continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with regular inspections and maintenance carried out to uphold its operational integrity.

With its strategic location, effective design, and ongoing regulatory oversight, Muddy Fork Structure No. 3 remains a key infrastructure for water resource management in Indiana. As climate change intensifies and water-related challenges become more prevalent, structures like these are essential for safeguarding communities against the impacts of flooding and ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

596

Dam Height

72

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY MUDDY FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

67

Drainage Area

3.84

Nid Storage

2950

Structural Height

72

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

72
       
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.