Berea Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Berea Reservoir, also known as Silver Creek Lake, is a key water supply source in Madison County, Kentucky.
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Summary
Managed by the local government, this reservoir was completed in 1950 and has a storage capacity of 385 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 266.7 acre-feet. The dam, primarily designed by Andrew J. Provost of Noroton, Conn., stands at a height of 44 feet and stretches 470 feet in length, holding back the waters of Silver Creek.
Despite its critical role in providing water supply to the area, Berea Reservoir has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The dam has not been modified in recent years and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with state inspections and enforcement in place. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, it is essential that risk management measures are implemented to ensure the safety and longevity of this important water resource. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Berea Reservoir to be a fascinating case study in the challenges and responsibilities of managing and maintaining vital water infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
SILVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
385 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
44 |
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.
Berea Reservoir