West Fork Clarks River Frs No 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

West Fork Clarks River FRS No 4 is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Calloway, Kentucky.


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Summary

Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 1068 feet, providing a storage capacity of 754 acre-feet. The dam is designed to mitigate the risk of flooding along the West Fork Clarks River, with a spillway width of 60 feet and a surface area of 29.7 acres.

Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as being in poor condition, with a risk assessment indicating moderate risk. The last inspection in December 2017 highlighted the need for improvement, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 3 years. The structure is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, ensuring its continued operation and maintenance for flood risk reduction in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, West Fork Clarks River FRS No 4 serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental protection, and community safety. With its history of construction and ongoing management, this dam not only plays a critical role in flood control but also underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and risk assessment to safeguard water resources and the surrounding area from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1068

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

WEST FORK CLARKS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29.7

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

754

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

29
       
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.