Donaldson Creek Frs No 8 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Donaldson Creek FRS No 8 is a critical flood risk reduction structure located in Caldwell, Kentucky, near the city of Creswell-Vicinity.
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Summary
Constructed in 1962 by the Soil Conservation Service, USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 970 feet, providing a storage capacity of 680 acre-feet to control the flow of Donaldson Creek. The dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a normal storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.14 square miles.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, Donaldson Creek FRS No 8 has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score of 3. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam undergoes inspections every 5 years, with the last assessment conducted in March 2012. The structure is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has not undergone significant modifications since its completion.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Donaldson Creek FRS No 8 presents an intriguing case study in flood risk management and dam infrastructure in Kentucky. With its historical significance as a flood control measure and its role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation, this dam exemplifies the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and efficacy of water management structures in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
970 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
DONALDSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19.4 |
Drainage Area |
3.14 |
Nid Storage |
680 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tradewater River At Olney
|
36cfs |
Little River Near Cadiz
|
485cfs |
Ohio River At Old Shawneetown
|
259000cfs |
Pond River Near Apex
|
52cfs |
Lusk Creek Near Eddyville
|
5cfs |
Clarks River At Almo
|
41cfs |
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.
Donaldson Creek Frs No 8