Lexington Reservoir No 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lexington Reservoir No 3, located in Fayette, Kentucky, is a privately owned dam built in 1902 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans a length of 1300 feet, creating a storage capacity of 2087 acre-feet. Situated on West Hickman Creek, the reservoir covers a surface area of 162 acres and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water.

Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 rated it as fair. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the reservoir has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 65 feet. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of surrounding communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lexington Reservoir No 3 presents an intriguing case study of a historic dam providing recreational opportunities while facing potential risks and management challenges.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

WEST HICKMAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

162

Drainage Area

4.41

Nid Storage

2087

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.