Little Ky River Frs 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Little Ky River Mps 1 Pennington Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Little Ky River FRS 2, also known as Baxter Lake, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Sulphur, Kentucky.
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Summary
Managed by the local government, this earth dam was completed in 1964 and serves the primary purpose of mitigating flood risks along the Little Kentucky River. With a height of 49 feet and a storage capacity of 2,350 acre-feet, this structure plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
The dam, designed by the Soil Conservation Service of the USDA, is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections by the Kentucky Division of Water. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the structure's condition assessment in 2017 deemed it to be in fair condition. The spillway, with a width of 120 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the safe release of excess water during high-flow events. The overall risk assessment for the dam is moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Little Ky River FRS 2 to be a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship. As a vital component of the flood control infrastructure in Henry County, Kentucky, this structure highlights the collaborative efforts of various agencies and organizations in safeguarding communities against the impacts of flooding. With its strategic location along the Little Kentucky River and its significant storage capacity, this dam serves as a critical line of defense in mitigating flood risks and protecting local residents and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
49 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE KENTUCKY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.6 |
Drainage Area |
6.7 |
Nid Storage |
2350 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
49 |
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.
Little Ky River Frs 2