Upper Tradewater Frs No 8 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Upper Tradewater FRS No 8, located in Christian County, Kentucky, is a vital flood risk reduction structure on Whitehorn Creek completed in 1969 by the Soil Conservation Service.
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Summary
With a dam height of 40 feet and a length of 520 feet, this earth dam provides essential flood protection for the surrounding area, storing 880 acre-feet of water during heavy rainfall events. The structure has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition, with regular inspections conducted by the Kentucky Division of Water.
The dam serves as a crucial water resource management tool, helping to mitigate the risk of flooding and safeguarding communities downstream. With a drainage area of 3.79 square miles, Upper Tradewater FRS No 8 plays a key role in maintaining water levels and controlling the flow of Whitehorn Creek. The structure's moderate risk assessment reflects the ongoing efforts to monitor and manage potential hazards, ensuring the safety and resilience of the surrounding area in the face of changing climate patterns.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and extreme weather events become more frequent, structures like Upper Tradewater FRS No 8 are essential for protecting communities and infrastructure from the threat of flooding. With a dedicated team overseeing its maintenance and operation, this dam exemplifies the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
520 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
WHITEHORN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18.2 |
Drainage Area |
3.79 |
Nid Storage |
880 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pond River Near Apex
|
39cfs |
Tradewater River At Olney
|
26cfs |
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 8