Ferdinand Forest Dam L-6 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ferdinand Forest Dam L-6, located in Saint Meinrad, Indiana, is a state-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risk in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1985, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 430 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of Hurricane Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding Dubois County from potential flooding events.

Although classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as being in fair condition with a risk assessment of "High (2)". The last inspection in January 2016 deemed it to be structurally sound, with a regular inspection frequency of 5 years. While the dam does not have a spillway, it serves as a vital flood risk reduction measure for the community, demonstrating the importance of water resource management in mitigating climate-related risks.

With its strategic location and functional design, Ferdinand Forest Dam L-6 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of state agencies in safeguarding the local environment and community from the impacts of extreme weather events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to recognize the significance of such infrastructure in enhancing resilience and sustainability in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY HURRICANE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.41

Nid Storage

157

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.