West Fork Clarks River Frs No 22 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

West Fork Clarks River FRS No 22, also known as Heflin Lake, is a crucial water resource located in Graves, Kentucky.


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Summary

This earth dam was completed in 1967 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Fork Clarks River. The dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 925 acre-feet, serving as a vital component in managing water flows in the region.

Despite its importance, West Fork Clarks River FRS No 22 is currently in poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in December 2017 revealed its deteriorating state, highlighting the urgent need for maintenance and repair. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the KY Division of Water and is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, West Fork Clarks River FRS No 22 presents a case study in the challenges and importance of maintaining infrastructure for flood risk reduction. As a key structure in the region's water management system, efforts to address its poor condition and mitigate the high hazard potential are essential to safeguarding communities and ecosystems downstream. Collaboration between local government, state agencies, and conservation services will be crucial in ensuring the long-term resilience and effectiveness of this critical water resource.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

WEST FORK CLARKS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45.2

Drainage Area

3.06

Nid Storage

925

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.