Somerset Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
The Somerset Reservoir Dam, also known as Somerset City Reservoir, is a privately owned structure located in Pulaski County, Kentucky.
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Summary
Completed in 1920, this Earth-type dam stands at 22 feet high and spans a length of 330 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. While its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam is also state-regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring that it meets necessary safety and inspection standards.
Situated on Pitman Creek, the Somerset Reservoir Dam provides a surface area of 10.1 acres and a drainage area of 4.5 square miles. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been formally rated for its condition. Despite its age, the structure is regularly inspected every five years, with its last assessment conducted in 2013. As an uncontrolled spillway type dam, the Somerset Reservoir Dam continues to serve as a vital water resource for the surrounding community while offering opportunities for outdoor activities and recreation.
The Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the management and operations of the dam, ensuring that it remains in compliance with state regulations and safety guidelines. With its historical significance and functional importance for water storage and recreation, the Somerset Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing natural resources for the benefit of society. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a fascinating example of how infrastructure can both support environmental needs and provide recreational opportunities for local residents.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
PITMAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.1 |
Drainage Area |
4.5 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Buck Creek Near Shopville
|
83cfs |
Rockcastle River At Billows
|
297cfs |
Green River Near Mckinney
|
9cfs |
Cumberland River At Cumberland Falls
|
1370cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Monticello
|
5cfs |
Lynn Camp Creek At Corbin
|
31cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Fall Creek - Lake Cumberland
|
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Fishing Creek - Lake Cumberland
|
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Waitsboro - Lake Cumberland
|
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General Burnside State Park
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Somerset Reservoir Dam