Eagle Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Eagle Lake Dam, located in Nelson County, Kentucky, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1960, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 475 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 270 acre-feet. Situated on the Rolling Fork River, the dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with regular inspections ensuring its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential.

Despite its modest size and recreational focus, Eagle Lake Dam plays a crucial role in the local water resource management, providing a surface area of 27 acres and normal storage of 203 acre-feet. The uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk assessment (level 3) highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold the dam's integrity and safety. With the last inspection conducted in 2017 and a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam's risk management measures are deemed sufficient to mitigate potential hazards and ensure public safety.

Overall, Eagle Lake Dam represents a harmonious blend of natural beauty and human engineering, offering a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts while fulfilling its vital role in regulating water flow along the Rolling Fork River. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and environmental conservation in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

ROLLING FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

270

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.