Willisburg Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Willisburg Lake Dam, located in Polin, Kentucky, is a vital water supply structure designed by John A.
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Summary
Stokley and Associates in 1968. This earth dam stands at a height of 77 feet and stretches 820 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 2351.5 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 126.1 acres. The dam, regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, serves the primary purpose of supplying water to the surrounding area.
Despite its critical role in water supply, Willisburg Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition with a high hazard potential, indicating the need for immediate attention and maintenance. The last inspection conducted in November 2017 revealed the dam's deteriorating state, prompting concerns among water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam's structural integrity and safety measures must be closely monitored and managed to prevent potential disasters and ensure the continued supply of water to the community.
As enthusiasts of water resources and climate sustainability, it is crucial to advocate for the proper maintenance and upkeep of Willisburg Lake Dam to safeguard the surrounding environment and water supply. By raising awareness of the dam's condition and advocating for necessary repairs and improvements, we can contribute to the resilience and longevity of this vital infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
820 |
Dam Height |
77 |
River Or Stream |
LICK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
126.1 |
Drainage Area |
3.7 |
Nid Storage |
2351.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
77 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Beech Fork At Maud
|
101cfs |
Salt River At Glensboro
|
70cfs |
Brashears Creek At Taylorsville
|
144cfs |
Beech Fork At Bardstown
|
177cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 6 Near Salvisa
|
5420cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 5 Near Tyrone
|
5480cfs |
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.
Willisburg Lake Dam