Satter Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Morgan County, Indiana, Satter Lake Dam is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 22 feet and stretching 170 feet in length, this dam creates a small reservoir with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam is situated along an unnamed tributary of Bear Creek and is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Despite its low hazard potential, Satter Lake Dam is currently in poor condition, as indicated by a 2010 assessment. The dam has not been inspected since December 2015, and its emergency action plan status is unknown. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As a popular recreational spot, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water-based activities for locals and visitors alike.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor the state of dams like Satter Lake Dam to prevent potential risks and ensure the sustainability of water resources. By staying informed about the condition of such structures and advocating for necessary maintenance and improvements, we can help protect these vital components of our water infrastructure for future generations to enjoy.

Dam Length

170

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.5

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.