Mortons Gap Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mortons Gap Reservoir Dam, located in Hopkins County, Kentucky, stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship.
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Summary
Built in 1945 by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, this earth dam spans 500 feet in length and reaches a height of 25 feet, holding back the waters of Flat Creek to create the Mortons Gap Reservoir. With a storage capacity of 73.6 acre-feet, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene oasis for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Mortons Gap Reservoir Dam is subject to stringent state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as a high hazard potential structure, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 rated it as fair, with a moderate risk level. Emergency action plans are in place, although last updated in 2013, to mitigate any potential risks and safeguard the surrounding community in the event of a breach. With its picturesque setting and vital role in water resource management, Mortons Gap Reservoir Dam remains a focal point for both local residents and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
FLAT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
73.6 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pond River Near Apex
|
39cfs |
Tradewater River At Olney
|
26cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
2370cfs |
Green River At Paradise
|
1890cfs |
Little River Near Cadiz
|
485cfs |
South Fork Panther Creek Near Whitesville
|
25cfs |
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.
Mortons Gap Reservoir Dam