Middle Fork Of Anderson River - No. 23 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Middle Fork of Anderson River - No.
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Summary
23, also known as Coon Branch Lake Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Perry County, Indiana. Built in 1992 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 36.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 227 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation during heavy rainfall events.
Managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, this dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of 2012, the dam requires regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate risks and uphold its structural integrity. Despite its high risk assessment level, the dam has not undergone modifications since its completion, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to safeguard against potential failures.
Situated on Coon Branch within the Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Its strategic design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service signify a commitment to enhancing flood control measures and protecting communities downstream. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Middle Fork of Anderson River - No. 23 highlights the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety in sustaining resilient water systems for the future.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
36.5 |
River Or Stream |
COON BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.81 |
Nid Storage |
227 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Middle Fork Anderson River At Bristow
|
9cfs |
Ohio River At Cannelton Dam At Cannelton
|
49000cfs |
Patoka River At Jasper
|
756cfs |
Blue River Near White Cloud
|
319cfs |
Patoka River At Winslow
|
643cfs |
Buck Creek Near New Middletown
|
20cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Jackpine Loop
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Tipsaw
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Dogwood Loop
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Catbrier Loop
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Goldenrod Loop
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Primrose Loop
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Middle Fork Of Anderson River - No. 23