Nortonville Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Nortonville Lake Dam, located in Nortonville, Kentucky, was completed in 1940 and serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.
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Summary
Spanning 700 feet in length and standing at a height of 17 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 233 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 26.8 acres. The dam is situated on Drakes Creek and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Nortonville Lake Dam continues to provide essential recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. With a spillway width of 30 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam offers a picturesque setting for water enthusiasts and nature lovers to enjoy. The dam's moderate risk assessment rating and regular inspection schedule highlight the ongoing efforts to maintain its integrity and ensure public safety.
Owned by the local government and primarily serving recreational purposes, Nortonville Lake Dam remains a valuable asset in Hopkins County, Kentucky. With a dedicated emergency action plan and adherence to state regulations, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
DRAKES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.26 |
Nid Storage |
233 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Nortonville Lake Dam