Summary
Constructed in 1943 by the US Army, this Earth dam stands at 48 feet high and spans 890 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 1840 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 140 acres and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water.
Located in Madison County, Kentucky, Lake Vega is situated in the city of Elliston and is fed by Muddy Creek. With a controlled spillway width of 135 feet, the reservoir has a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. While detailed information on the condition assessment is not available, the dam undergoes inspections every four years to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Lake Vega for its role in flood risk reduction and its potential for recreational activities. As a vital piece of infrastructure designed to protect the surrounding area from flooding, this reservoir serves as an example of effective water management and environmental stewardship. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, Lake Vega stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
890 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
Muddy Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
140 |
Hydraulic Height |
48 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
1840 |
Structural Height |
48 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
48 |
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.
Lake Vega