Carlisle Lower Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Carlisle Lower Reservoir Dam, located in Carlisle, Kentucky, is a significant earth dam completed in 1950 for water supply purposes.
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Summary
With a structural height of 25 feet and a length of 360 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.2 acres. The dam is situated on Hinkston Creek and is under the regulatory oversight of the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of its last assessment in October 2017. With an inspection frequency of 3 years, the dam is regularly monitored to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The spillway of the dam is uncontrolled and has a width of 15 feet, providing a means for excess water to be released in case of high water levels. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards.
Overall, Carlisle Lower Reservoir Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water supply in the region, contributing to the management of water resources in Nicholas County, Kentucky. As a key structure on Hinkston Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water storage and regulating water flow in the area. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam continues to be a valuable asset for the community and a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
HINKSTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Carlisle Lower Reservoir Dam