Thomas Lakes (Lower) Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Thomas Lakes (Lower) Dam, located in Owen County, Kentucky, was completed in 1940 and serves as a vital water supply source for the local community.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 90 acre-feet. The dam spans 250 feet in length and impounds water from the North Severn Creek, creating a surface area of 6 acres.
Despite its importance for water supply, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a low hazard potential. The last inspection in October 2016 revealed the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure the structure's safety and stability. While the dam is state-regulated and regularly inspected, there are no associated structures or outlet gates, raising concerns about its operational efficiency and emergency preparedness.
Given its moderate risk level and the need for condition assessment updates, stakeholders and local authorities must prioritize the maintenance and rehabilitation of Thomas Lakes (Lower) Dam to mitigate potential risks and ensure the continued reliability of this crucial water resource infrastructure. With proper management measures and investment in necessary upgrades, the dam can continue to fulfill its primary purpose of water supply for the surrounding area while enhancing resilience to climate variability and ensuring public safety.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH SEVERN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.24 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kentucky River At Lock 3 At Gest
|
4930cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 2 At Lockport
|
4990cfs |
Eagle Creek At Glencoe
|
107cfs |
Elkhorn Creek Near Frankfort
|
284cfs |
Ohio River At Markland Dam Near Warsaw
|
44700cfs |
Eagle Creek At Sadieville
|
5cfs |
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.
Thomas Lakes (Lower) Dam