Saunders Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saunders Lake Dam, located in Johnson County, Indiana, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

This earth dam, primarily designed for recreational purposes, stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 27 feet. With a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet and a surface area of 7.5 acres, the dam serves as a vital resource for water storage in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in August 2019. The risk assessment for Saunders Lake Dam is moderate, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With a drainage area of 0.14 square miles and a maximum discharge of 384 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region.

As a key feature on an unnamed tributary of Youngs Creek, Saunders Lake Dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a critical component of the local water resource infrastructure. With its proximity to Louisville District and under the jurisdiction of the state of Indiana, the dam's operation, inspection, and enforcement are overseen by the appropriate regulatory agencies to mitigate potential risks and ensure public safety in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY YOUNGS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.5

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

94

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.