Boltz Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Boltz Lake Dam, located in Grant County, Kentucky, is a state-owned structure managed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
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Summary
Built in 1956, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a serene setting for activities like boating, fishing, and picnicking on the 91.8-acre surface area of Boltz Lake. With a height of 62 feet and a length of 600 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 2,800 acre-feet, making it a vital water resource in the region.
Despite its recreational appeal, Boltz Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment, last conducted in April 2017. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 90 feet, and its drainage area is 3.11 square miles, making it crucial for proper maintenance and inspection. The dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Given its moderate risk assessment of 3, Boltz Lake Dam is in need of ongoing risk management measures to address potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. With its picturesque location on Eagle Creek and proximity to Elliston, Kentucky, the dam serves as a valuable water resource for both recreational enjoyment and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
62 |
River Or Stream |
EAGLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
91.8 |
Drainage Area |
3.11 |
Nid Storage |
2800 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
62 |
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.
Boltz Lake Dam