Loch Mary Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Loch Mary Reservoir Dam, located in Earlington, Kentucky, serves as a vital water supply source for the region.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 1300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2350 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Clear Creek and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance.

Despite its critical role in water supply, Loch Mary Reservoir Dam has been assessed as having a high hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition as of 2018. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 102 feet, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and regular inspections to mitigate any risks. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, stakeholders are urged to implement effective risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam for the surrounding community.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Loch Mary Reservoir Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its location in Hopkins County, Kentucky, this dam stands as a critical piece of infrastructure for water supply in the region. Efforts to address the dam's high hazard potential and unsatisfactory condition are essential in safeguarding the community and adapting to the evolving climate challenges that lie ahead.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

148

Drainage Area

3.67

Nid Storage

2350

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

27
       
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.