Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 7-A Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Upper Big Blue River Structure No.
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Summary
7-A, located in Knightstown, Indiana, is a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure along Buck Creek. Designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1976, this earth dam stands at 62 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 57 feet, providing critical protection to the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 5060 acre-feet and a drainage area of 17.17 square miles, this structure plays a key role in managing water flow and reducing flood hazards.
The dam also serves recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 40 acres for outdoor activities. With a spillway width of 350 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 27,200 cubic feet per second, Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 7-A is well-equipped to handle high water levels and mitigate potential risks. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, ensuring its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the community.
Maintained by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this structure undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational readiness. With its strategic location and impressive engineering features, Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 7-A stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Henry County, Indiana.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
840 |
Dam Height |
62 |
River Or Stream |
BUCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
57 |
Drainage Area |
17.17 |
Nid Storage |
5060 |
Structural Height |
62 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
62 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Upper Big Blue River Structure No. 7-A