Olive Hill Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Smokey Valley Dam Lake Louise
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
The Olive Hill Reservoir Dam, located in Carter, Kentucky, is a vital water supply infrastructure designed by Maurice L.
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Summary
Miller. Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and has a length of 475 feet, with a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for the local government and is regulated by the KY Division of Water, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.
With a moderate risk assessment rating and a high hazard potential, the Olive Hill Reservoir Dam is considered fair in condition as of the last assessment in 2016. The spillway type for this dam is uncontrolled with a width of 60 feet, providing a safety measure for potential overflow events. Situated on the Perry Branch river, this dam plays a crucial role in water management for the region, serving as a key infrastructure for sustaining water supply needs in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Olive Hill Reservoir Dam represents a significant piece of infrastructure that highlights the importance of effective water management and regulation in ensuring a sustainable water supply for communities.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
475 |
Dam Height |
47 |
River Or Stream |
PERRY BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.87 |
Nid Storage |
340 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
47 |
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.
Olive Hill Reservoir Dam