Clements Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clements Lake Dam, located in Morehead, Kentucky, is a state-owned structure built in 1950 for the primary purpose of recreation along Evans Branch.


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Summary

This Earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and spans a length of 550 feet, with a storage capacity of 677.75 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 40 feet, and the overall condition of the dam was assessed as fair during its last inspection in December 2016.

With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Clements Lake Dam is under the jurisdiction of the Kentucky Division of Water and is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in January 2013, and it meets guidelines for risk management. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its purpose for recreational activities while maintaining a moderate risk level, making it a key feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and appreciate in the region.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

EVANS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21.6

Drainage Area

0.71

Nid Storage

677.75

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

44
       
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.