Fordsville Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Fordsville Lake Dam, also known as Fordsville Reservoir, is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Fordsville, Kentucky.
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Summary
Owned by the local government and regulated by the KY Division of Water, this earth dam was completed in 1963 and primarily serves the purpose of water supply. With a dam height of 35 feet and a length of 600 feet, it holds a maximum storage capacity of 230 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8.3 acres in the Ohio, Kentucky county state.
Despite its importance in providing water supply, Fordsville Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in June 2018. The spillway, with a width of 50 feet, is uncontrolled, adding to the risk associated with the dam. The risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level (3), highlighting the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the integrity of the dam structure.
Given its critical role in water supply and the potential risks it presents, Fordsville Lake Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its historical significance and current condition, there is a pressing need for ongoing inspection, maintenance, and potentially, the implementation of risk management measures to safeguard the dam and its surrounding areas.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
ADAMS FORK (WEST) |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.49 |
Nid Storage |
230 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Fordsville Lake Dam