Little Ky River Frs 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Little Ky River FRS 4, also known as Little Ky.
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Summary
River FRS #4, is a local government-owned flood risk reduction structure located in Sulphur, Henry County, Kentucky. Constructed in 1963 by the Soil Conservation Service, USDA/NRCS, this earth dam spans 500 feet in length and stands at a height of 42 feet, providing a storage capacity of 610 acre-feet. Situated on the Little Kentucky River, this structure serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water.
Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Little Ky River FRS 4 has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Its condition assessment is currently not rated as of the last inspection in August 2015, with an inspection frequency of five years. While emergency action plans and risk management measures are not explicitly stated, the structure's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service indicate a commitment to ensuring the safety and resilience of the surrounding community in the event of a flood event. With a drainage area of 2.4 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.
As a vital component of the flood protection infrastructure along the Little Kentucky River, Little Ky River FRS 4 remains an essential asset in safeguarding the local community from potential inundation. While its risk assessment suggests a moderate level of vulnerability, the structure's historical significance and continued monitoring by state regulatory agencies underscore the importance of proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness. With its uncontrolled spillway and proximity to residential areas, the dam serves as a tangible reminder of the critical role that water resource management plays in climate resilience and disaster prevention efforts.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE KENTUCKY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
2.4 |
Nid Storage |
610 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
42 |
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 4