Springfield Reservoir (Old) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Briartown, Kentucky, the Springfield Reservoir (Old) is a historic earth dam constructed in 1930 for water supply purposes.


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Summary

The reservoir has a dam height of 36 feet and a length of 570 feet, with a storage capacity of 360 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this reservoir is to provide water supply to the local community, drawing water from the Cartwright Creek.

Despite its age, the Springfield Reservoir (Old) is regulated and inspected by the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. The reservoir has a high hazard potential and is currently rated as unsatisfactory in terms of condition assessment, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. With a surface area of 19.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.25 square miles, the reservoir plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Springfield Reservoir (Old) to be a fascinating example of early water infrastructure in Kentucky. With its rich history and ongoing importance as a water supply source, this reservoir serves as a reminder of the critical role that such structures play in sustaining communities and ecosystems. Despite its age and maintenance challenges, the reservoir continues to provide essential water services while being closely monitored for safety and regulatory compliance.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

CARTWRIGHT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19.2

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

360

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.