Summary
Completed in 1955, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 18 acres and a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. Situated on the Little Barren River, the dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 560 feet in length.
Despite its scenic surroundings and recreational amenities, Dunham Lake Dam has been classified as having a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment. The dam's spillway, with a width of 16 feet, is uncontrolled, which may pose risks during times of high water flow. The last inspection in September 2017 raised concerns about the dam's structural integrity, prompting the need for improved risk management measures.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts keen on exploring Dunham Lake Dam should be aware of its maintenance issues and the potential risks associated with its condition. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a history of poor maintenance, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive monitoring and upkeep of critical infrastructure to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE BARREN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
2.2 |
Nid Storage |
240 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Dunham Lake Dam