Summary
Completed in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a normal storage capacity of 98 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 36 cubic feet per second, the dam impounds an unnamed tributary of the St. Marys River, creating a surface area of 24 acres.
Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Saddle Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, raising concerns about its ability to safely manage water flow during periods of high discharge. With a risk assessment rating of high, efforts to improve the dam's safety and emergency preparedness measures may be necessary to mitigate potential risks to downstream communities and infrastructure.
As a notable feature in the region's water resource management infrastructure, Saddle Lake Dam's condition and maintenance play a vital role in ensuring the safety of its surroundings and the continued enjoyment of recreational activities by local residents and visitors. Ongoing monitoring, risk assessment, and potential upgrades or repairs can contribute to safeguarding this important dam for the future.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY ST. MARYS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
155 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Saddle Lake Dam