London Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The London Reservoir Dam, located in Burnside, Kentucky, serves as a vital water resource and recreational site in the area.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 54 feet and spans a length of 250 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 653.3 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Sinking Creek and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring its compliance with state inspection, permitting, and enforcement requirements.

Owned by the local government, the primary purpose of the London Reservoir Dam is recreation, offering a surface area of 26 acres for outdoor activities. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to moderate risk assessment, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures. While it has not been rated for condition assessment, the dam has a history of regular inspections, with the last one conducted in May 2013, maintaining its safety and functionality for the community.

The London Reservoir Dam not only provides water storage and recreational opportunities but also contributes to the overall environmental and economic well-being of Laurel County, Kentucky. With its scenic location and regulated maintenance, the dam remains a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

SINKING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

653.3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

54
       
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.