Tw Samuels Distllery Dam No 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tw Samuels Distillery Dam No 3, located in Nelson, Kentucky, stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1940.


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Summary

This private earth dam, with a height of 23 feet and a length of 390 feet, serves as a vital component of the Tw Samuels Distillery operations, providing a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 36.8 acre-feet. Situated on the West Fork River, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the area.

Under the regulatory oversight of the Kentucky Division of Water, Tw Samuels Distillery Dam No 3 has been rated as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, this dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in April 2017. With an emergency action plan yet to be prepared, the dam still meets safety guidelines and contributes to the overall risk management measures in place.

For those with a passion for water resource management and climate adaptation, Tw Samuels Distillery Dam No 3 represents a historic landmark with modern-day significance. Its role in supporting the operations of the distillery while managing water resources and mitigating risks underscores the importance of sustainable infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. As stakeholders continue to monitor and evaluate the dam's performance, its legacy as a critical water management structure remains a focal point for conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

WEST FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.2

Drainage Area

0.87

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.