Ferdinand Forest Dam L-13 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Saint Meinrad, Indiana, the Ferdinand Forest Dam L-13, also known as Wp & Fpp Structure No.


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Summary

L-13, was completed in 1985 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Hurricane Creek. This earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 420 feet, providing storage capacity of 118 acre-feet for managing floodwaters in the area. The dam is owned by the state of Indiana and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement to maintain its structural integrity.

With a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of August 2012, the Ferdinand Forest Dam L-13 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding Dubois County community. The dam has a drainage area of 0.3 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 860 cubic feet per second, highlighting its importance in managing excess water flow during heavy rainfall events. Despite not having a spillway, the dam's design and operation are closely monitored to uphold safety standards and prevent potential risks to downstream areas.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location and design of the Ferdinand Forest Dam L-13, which serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control in the region. The dam, constructed by the USDA NRCS, reflects a collaborative effort between federal and state agencies to safeguard against flood hazards and ensure the resilience of the local community. With ongoing inspection and maintenance efforts, the dam continues to fulfill its role in protecting lives and properties from the impacts of extreme weather events, showcasing the importance of effective water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

HURRICANE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

118

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.