Luzerne Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Luzerne Lake Dam, located in Muhlenberg, Kentucky, serves as a vital recreational resource for the local community.
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Summary
Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 420 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 937 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Caney Creek and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its safety and integrity.
Despite its primary purpose for recreation, Luzerne Lake Dam holds a high hazard potential and has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition, with a moderate risk level determined. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 410 feet wide, adds to the operational challenges of the dam. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in January 2013, and there are ongoing discussions about implementing risk management measures to address the identified hazards and risks associated with the structure.
Given its historical significance and importance as a recreational asset, Luzerne Lake Dam requires continued attention and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of the dam's functionality. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, it is essential to monitor the dam's condition and advocate for sustainable practices to mitigate risks and enhance the resilience of this critical infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
CANEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
59.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.95 |
Nid Storage |
937 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pond River Near Apex
|
39cfs |
Green River At Paradise
|
1890cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
2370cfs |
Tradewater River At Olney
|
26cfs |
South Fork Panther Creek Near Whitesville
|
25cfs |
Caney Creek Near Horse Branch
|
38cfs |
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.
Luzerne Lake Dam