Upper Tradewater Frs No 11 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Upper Tradewater FRS No 11 is a significant flood risk reduction structure located in Christian, Kentucky, along the Sandlick Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1969 by the Soil Conservation Service of the USDA, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 770 feet, providing a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet to mitigate flooding in the area. The dam is regulated and inspected by the KY Division of Water, ensuring its safety and effectiveness in flood control.
Despite its fair condition assessment in 2017, Upper Tradewater FRS No 11 has a low hazard potential and is considered to be a moderate risk structure. With a drainage area of 2.83 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding community from potential flood events. Its location in the Nashville District and its design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the collaborative efforts involved in water resource management in the region.
In the event of an emergency, the dam has an inspection frequency of 5 years and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway. While the risk is moderate, the structure is well-maintained and meets regulatory guidelines for flood risk reduction. Upper Tradewater FRS No 11 serves as a vital component of the water infrastructure in Kentucky, showcasing the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding against the impacts of climate change and ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
770 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
SANDLICK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16.8 |
Drainage Area |
2.83 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tradewater River At Olney
|
26cfs |
Pond River Near Apex
|
39cfs |
Little River Near Cadiz
|
485cfs |
Green River At Paradise
|
1890cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
2370cfs |
Red River At Port Royal
|
195cfs |
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.
Upper Tradewater Frs No 11