Valley Creek Frs 12 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Valley Creek Frs 8 Valley Creek Frs 3
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Valley Creek FRS 12, also known as Buffalo Lake, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.
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Summary
Built in 1973 by the Soil Conservation Service, USDA/NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and has a length of 3000 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Nolin River, with a storage capacity of 2570 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 115 acre-feet.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Valley Creek FRS 12 is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam has a spillway width of 160 feet and is classified as having a high hazard potential, though its condition is assessed as fair. The risk assessment for the structure is moderate, with a DSAC assigned date and risk management measures pending further investigation.
With its strategic location and vital role in flood risk reduction along the Nolin River, Valley Creek FRS 12 is a key component of the water resource infrastructure in Hardin County, Kentucky. Its history of construction and maintenance reflects a commitment to safeguarding communities from potential flood events, while ongoing assessments and risk management efforts ensure the structure's continued effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from water-related hazards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Valley Creek FRS 12 offers a fascinating case study in sustainable water management practices and the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
3000 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
NOLIN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Drainage Area |
6.18 |
Nid Storage |
2570 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rolling Fork Near Boston
|
449cfs |
North Fork Nolin River At Hodgenville
|
6cfs |
Nolin River At White Mills
|
135cfs |
Long Lick At Clermont
|
1cfs |
Beech Fork At Bardstown
|
177cfs |
Salt River At Shepherdsville
|
716cfs |
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.
Valley Creek Frs 12
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