Oakland Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lankford Dam Spurlington Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Oakland Lake Dam, located in Merrimac, Kentucky, was completed in 1950 and serves as a crucial water resource for the area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, primarily used for recreational purposes, stands at a height of 20 feet and has a total length of 288 feet. With a storage capacity of 181 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 140 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in managing water levels in the region.
Owned privately, Oakland Lake Dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is considered to be in satisfactory condition. While the dam's primary purpose is for recreation, it also contributes to the overall water management system in the area, particularly for the Robinson Creek watershed.
Despite its recreational focus, Oakland Lake Dam plays a significant role in water resource management in Taylor County, Kentucky. With its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment, the dam continues to provide essential water storage and flood control benefits to the region. As a key feature in the local landscape, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
288 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
ROBINSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.24 |
Nid Storage |
181 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Green River Near Mckinney
|
9cfs |
Russell Creek Near Columbia
|
48cfs |
Dix River Near Danville
|
252cfs |
Beech Fork At Maud
|
120cfs |
Beech Fork At Bardstown
|
190cfs |
North Fork Nolin River At Hodgenville
|
5cfs |
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.
Oakland Lake Dam