Stearns Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Stearns Reservoir Dam, also known as Mill (Apple Tree) Pond, is a captivating water resource nestled in Cumberland Falls State Park, Kentucky.


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Summary

Built in 1920 by the Southern Railroad, this local government-owned earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and stretches 1200 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 70 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 5.7 acres and drains a 0.1 square mile watershed area.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Stearns Reservoir Dam remains regulated and inspected by the Kentucky Division of Water. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and has not been rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection conducted in 2013 deemed the dam to have a five-year inspection frequency. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, it serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community and wildlife, showcasing the harmonious intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in this picturesque region of Kentucky.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

LAUREL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.7

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.