Cannon Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cannon Creek Dam, also known as Cannon Creek Lake, is a state-owned structure located in Bell, Kentucky.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the Kentucky Division of Water/Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 125 feet and spans 900 feet in length. Its primary purpose is to serve as a water supply source for the surrounding area, with a storage capacity of 16,700 acre-feet and a surface area of 243 acres.

Situated on Yellow Creek, Cannon Creek Dam is regulated and permitted by the Kentucky Division of Water. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 rated it as fair. With a moderate risk assessment level of 3, the dam has emergency action plans in place, although the last revision was in 2013. While no federal agency funding or involvement has been noted, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cannon Creek Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management. Its location in the Nashville District and close proximity to Fernvale, Kentucky, makes it a key player in the local water supply infrastructure. With ongoing inspections and enforcement by state authorities, the dam's role in flood control and water storage remains vital to the community. Despite its age, Cannon Creek Dam continues to stand as a testament to effective water resource planning and management in Kentucky.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

125

River Or Stream

YELLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

243

Drainage Area

4.62

Nid Storage

16700

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

125
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.