Paris Spears Mill Impoundment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Paris Spears Mill Impoundment, located in Paris, Kentucky, serves as a vital water supply structure on Stoner Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1959, this gravity dam stands at a height of 14 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 430 acre-feet. With a surface area of 59 acres and a drainage area of 151 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the surrounding area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, Paris Spears Mill Impoundment has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, it undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a primary purpose of water supply, this impoundment serves as a key infrastructure for the community, supporting various water-related activities and needs.
Designed by Howard K. Bell of Lexington, KY, Paris Spears Mill Impoundment stands as a testament to effective water resource management and infrastructure development. With its strategic location, reliable operation, and significant storage capacity, this gravity dam continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential risks for the community of Paris and beyond.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
111 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
STONER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
59 |
Drainage Area |
151 |
Nid Storage |
430 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Paris Spears Mill Impoundment