Lexington Reservoir No 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Lexington Reservoir No 4, also known as Jacobson Reservoir, is a privately owned water supply reservoir located in Fayette County, Kentucky.


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Summary

Constructed in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a length of 1000 feet, with a storage capacity of 4800 acre-feet. The reservoir serves the primary purpose of water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet and a surface area of 260 acres.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Lexington Reservoir No 4 has a high hazard potential and is rated to be in fair condition as of the last assessment in May 2016. The spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 150 feet, plays a crucial role in managing water levels in the reservoir. The surrounding East Hickman Creek watershed covers 8.26 square miles, providing a source for the reservoir's inflow.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lexington Reservoir No 4 offers a fascinating glimpse into the infrastructure that supports water supply in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing management by state regulatory agencies, this reservoir serves as a vital resource for the community while also posing challenges in terms of maintenance and risk assessment.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

EAST HICKMAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

260

Drainage Area

8.26

Nid Storage

4800

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.